Key terms & definitions

The responsibility to consider how design and production decisions affect workers, users and communities.

The tasks and responsibilities society expects a person to undertake, such as earning wages, caring for children or managing a household.

Government provision of support such as pensions and unemployment payments.

State provision of financial protection against circumstances such as unemployment, illness, disability or old age.

Separation between groups in society, with limited contact or participation in the wider community.

The sense of belonging and commitment that binds people together as members of a society.

A person’s position in society, shaped by factors such as birth, title, wealth, occupation and reputation.

Social disapproval attached to a person’s circumstances or behaviour, such as being divorced.

Shame or disgrace attached to a characteristic, situation or behaviour.

Negative social attitudes towards a characteristic or condition, which can lead to shame, rejection or unfair treatment.

The organisation of society into unequal layers with different access to resources, prestige and power.

The organisation of people into groups with different levels of wealth, power, status and freedom.

The organised patterns of relationships and institutions, such as education and the class system, that shape people's lives.

Public disturbances, such as protests, riots or looting, arising from dissatisfaction or hardship.

Support for people facing hardship, such as unemployment, illness or poverty.

People’s quality of life, including their health, security and ability to meet their basic needs.

A person's ability to form relationships, interact with others and take part in society.

Beliefs and expectations held by people or groups, which can encourage acceptance of change or resistance to it.

A group of people sharing a culture or way of life.

The Quaker religious movement, whose worship in Britain centres on shared silence and contributions offered by anyone who feels moved to speak.

A Catholic organisation that tackles poverty and disadvantage through practical assistance, friendship, prayer and mutual support, helping people regardless of their beliefs or background.

Rome’s Italian allies, which supplied soldiers and other support to Rome.

An influence arising from people's social circumstances, relationships, beliefs or cultural practices.

A grouping of people who share a similar economic position, connected to factors such as ownership, occupation and employment relationships.

A way of grouping people by their social and economic position, often using information about their occupation and employment.

Information about people’s social and economic circumstances, such as housing, employment, income and access to services.

Differences between places in economic conditions and social characteristics, such as income, literacy and life expectancy.

A group of people sharing social and economic characteristics, such as age, income, education or employment circumstances.

A category used to describe someone’s social and economic position, often based on occupation and employment circumstances.

Differences in income, wealth and access to opportunities or services between people or areas.