Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of stratified systems?

Stratified systems are characterized by structured inequality where individuals and groups are ranked hierarchically based on various factors such as wealth, power, and prestige. The correct answer indicates that rapid changes in social positions do not typically occur in stratified systems.

In such systems, social categories tend to have fixed ranks, meaning that individuals often remain within the same stratification throughout their lives, with limited mobility between different levels. Life experiences, including access to resources and opportunities, can vary significantly based on one's status within the social hierarchy. Additionally, status can be achieved (gained through personal effort and accomplishments) or ascribed (assigned at birth or involuntarily), illustrating the complexity of social stratification.

In contrast, while some individuals may experience upward or downward mobility, this typically happens gradually rather than rapidly, making option C the feature that does not align with the general characteristics of stratified systems.