Social hierarchies exist, but the idea that status is clear-cut, obvious and carries across all social interactions in a social grouping is a myth.
hierarchies
Tipping points, non-renewables and a postcapitalist future
Kim Stanley Robinson (KSR) published this article last year, but it’s worth looking at again in light of ever more data showing that we are running out of planet, or at least running out of the non-renewable resources needed to continue growing the classic capitalist economy:
Hoyden About Town 