What would be an example of a master status?

A master status is a social position that holds particular significance and shapes an individual's identity, social interactions, and how they are perceived by others. In this context, a person's ethnicity serves as an enduring and foundational aspect of identity that influences a wide range of social experiences, opportunities, and interactions. Ethnicity often encompasses cultural heritage, language, and shared experiences, which can profoundly affect how individuals are treated in various social contexts, including employment, social circles, and public perception.

While job titles, family upbringing, and personal hobbies are important facets of a person's identity, they do not typically carry the same pervasive influence as a master status like ethnicity. A job title may change frequently, family upbringing may have varying impacts depending on personal circumstances, and hobbies are often less salient in the broader socio-cultural landscape when compared to the overarching and often defining nature of one’s ethnicity. Thus, ethnicity is a clear example of a master status due to its deep-rooted impact on societal dynamics and personal identity.