Society Vocabulary

The condition of being unequal, particularly in terms of wealth, opportunity, or social status

“Growing income inequality is destabilising social cohesion in many developed nations.”

The unjust treatment of individuals based on characteristics such as race, gender, or religion

“Legislation alone is insufficient to eliminate workplace discrimination.”

A demographic trend in which the proportion of older people in a society increases over time

“An ageing population places increasing demands on pension systems and healthcare services.”

The movement of individuals or families between different economic or social positions in a society

“Education is widely regarded as the most reliable route to upward social mobility.”

The coexistence of multiple cultural groups within a single society, with tolerance and respect for diversity

“Canada's official policy of multiculturalism has shaped its national identity for decades.”

The process by which populations move from rural areas to cities, leading to growth in urban populations

“Rapid urbanisation in developing countries is outpacing the provision of housing and services.”

The degree to which members of a society are connected, trusting, and willing to cooperate for mutual benefit

“Rising inequality threatens social cohesion by deepening divisions between rich and poor.”

A group that is excluded from mainstream social, economic, or political life

“Policies must be designed with input from marginalised communities to be truly effective.”

A significant change in the size, composition, or distribution of a population over time

“Demographic shifts in East Asia are forcing governments to rethink retirement policies.”

Participation in the political, social, and cultural life of one's community

“Low rates of civic engagement among young voters threaten the health of democracy.”

A cycle in which poverty is passed down from one generation to the next within a family

“Breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty requires targeted investment in early childhood education.”

The difference in average earnings between men and women across a workforce or economy

“Closing the gender pay gap requires both legislative change and shifts in workplace culture.”

The hierarchical arrangement of individuals and groups in a society based on wealth, power, or social status

“Social stratification persists despite policies designed to promote equality of opportunity.”

Racial discrimination embedded within the policies, institutions, and culture of a society

“Activists argue that systemic racism cannot be addressed through individual attitude change alone.”

A set of social rules, values, or standards that guide expected behaviour within a group or society

“Human rights law provides a normative framework for evaluating government policies.”