Which term refers to the respect and admiration that an occupation holds in a society?

The term that refers to the respect and admiration that an occupation holds in society is prestige. Prestige is tied to social status and can vary significantly between different occupations. It reflects how a particular job or profession is perceived in terms of societal values, which often includes factors like the level of education required, the nature of the work, and the impact the occupation has on the community.

For example, professions like doctors, engineers, and professors tend to have higher prestige due to their specialized knowledge and the critical roles they play in society. Conversely, jobs that are viewed as less skilled or less impactful may have lower prestige.

Recognizing this distinction is essential for understanding how societal views shape individuals' opportunities and interactions within the social structure, ultimately influencing their social mobility and interactions with others.