Do credit scores diminish the life chances of low-income people? Consumer credit scoring creates risk profiles for consumers based on payment history, debt, length of credit history, number of new credit accounts, and types of credit in use. Because credit scoring doesnt take into account race/ethnicity, age (usually), marital status, or income, some argue that the system is fair. A common argument is that if a person has a low credit score, its because of his or her own irresponsibility. However, this argument ignores the link between consumer credit scoring and social class. Low-income people are less likely to be able to pay their bills on timethe most important factor in the scoring system. They are also more likely to have high debt ratios relative to income than their high-income counterparts. Some sociologists argue that the consumer credit scoring system is an emergent stratification system that diminishes the life chances of low-income people while enhancing those of high-income people.

This simulation views the consumer credit scoring system as a subtle method of social stratification. Did consumer credit scoring have the effect of social stratification in your simulation? Do you believe this to be true in today's world? Explain your reasoning and give examples