Maria is studying sociology and is tasked with analyzing why different groups in her community have varying levels of access to higher education. She notes that socioeconomic status, cultural values, and local educational resources all play significant roles. Which sociological principle best helps Maria to understand these differences?

The sociological principle that best helps Maria understand the differences in access to higher education is social inequality. This principle explains how different groups in society have unequal access to resources, such as education, based on their socioeconomic status, cultural values, and the availability of local educational resources. For example, a family with higher income can afford tutoring and extracurricular activities that enhance a student’s chances of getting into college, while a lower-income family might struggle to provide the same support. By examining these factors, Maria can see how they create barriers or opportunities for different groups in her community. Understanding social inequality allows her to analyze the broader social structures that influence educational access.