Stratification via rankings – UGC NET Question

The concern expressed by critics is that global rankings create and deepen hierarchies in which a few institutions gain most of the prestige and resources. This hierarchical layering of advantage is known as stratification, so “stratification” correctly completes the statement.

Option A:
Option A is correct because stratification captures the systematic differentiation of institutions into high-status and low-status tiers, which rankings can intensify by channeling attention and funding to those already at the top.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect since “egalitarianism” implies equality and equal sharing of resources, the opposite of what critics attribute to rankings.

Option C:
Option C is wrong because “randomness” suggests the absence of pattern, whereas stratification refers to a structured and persistent hierarchy.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect as “uniformity” would mean that institutions become more alike, while the critique is that rankings accentuate differences and inequalities.