Abstract:

In the case of inequality in education, social stratification is considered to be a crucial variable. However, though social stratification can lead to substantial inequality in education, inequality in education also creates a process that further feeds stratification, creating a vicious cycle in terms of social inequalities. In current research on social stratification, it is necessary to adopt a conceptual schema that defines the layers of stratification. Conceptual schemas vary according to the stratification theory on which they are based. There are two leading researchers who are working on developing conceptual schemas: first, Goldthorpe, who has conducted studies on conceptual schema based on Weber’s theory of stratification and, second, Wright, who based his research on Marx’s theory on social classes. The aim of this study is to analyze educational inequalities Turkey in terms of social strata. Within the framework of this general aim, the authors sought to answer two questions by examining the education level of both the general and school age populations in terms of social strata: 1) How can Turkey’s population be described according to education level, enrollment rate (for school age population), employment status, and income level? 2) On the basis of the social class structure of the layers, what are the educational inequalities which can be detected in Turkey?

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