The quote "Luxury is the offspring of social stratification in inegalitarian societies" refers to what aspect of luxury?

The quote "Luxury is the offspring of social stratification in inegalitarian societies" emphasizes the historical significance of luxury goods and how they arise from societal structures that create different social classes. In societies where inequality exists, luxury items emerge as symbols of status and affluence, reflecting the disparities between social groups. The way luxury functions as a marker of one's social position is deeply rooted in history, illustrating how specific goods are valued not only for their quality but also for their ability to signify wealth and exclusivity.

Understanding luxury through this historical lens helps to clarify why certain products are designated as luxury items—they serve to reinforce social hierarchies and delineate class boundaries. While market segmentation, pricing strategy, and consumer base are important factors in luxury marketing, they do not capture the foundational role that social stratification plays in the very definition and existence of luxury goods. This quote invites examination of the broader societal implications of luxury, linking it to historical patterns of inequality and the evolution of consumer culture.