Originally published in 1968, all the papers in the first volume of Sociological Studies are centred round the theme of social stratification. Four of the contributions took a fresh look at some of the terms used to describe stratification. These include class, status, power, deference, privilege, prestige. The papers show how these terms have many variations of meaning and conceal interesting and important facets of the problem. Having determined what is meant by social stratification, the next five papers go on to emphasise the study of aspects of social stratification in particular societies, and include reports on empirical research in this field. An editorial introduction discusses developments in the literature on this subject and provides a background against which the other papers are set.