An empirical approach to the analysis of social stratification: the case of the hake fishermen in the Region of Bio Bio, Chile

Abstract

This article intends to explore and analyse the system of social stratification of the artisan fishing sector through the statistical technique of cluster analysis in the Bio-Bio region in Chile. The results tend to support the initial hypothesis of the existence of a structure that reflects the stratification system. Hake Artisan fishermen are socially mobilized under this structure and are classified into three different strata, differentiated by: years of experience in the sector, school level, income level, capital property type and territorial ownership or residence. In smaller measure, differences with respect to the aspirations, employment expectations and commitment of Hake Artisan Fishermen with the job were observed. These being cross characteristics of each stratum in the culture of the sector.