В Индии господствующие сословия traditionally included the Brahmins (priests and scholars), the Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), the Vaishyas (businessmen and farmers), and the Shudras (laborers and service providers). Additionally, there was also the Dalit community, considered the lowest in the caste system.

In Japan, the dominant social classes historically included the samurai (warrior class), the daimyo (feudal lords), the shogun (military rulers), and the peasants. The Emperor was also considered a significant figure in Japanese society.

In China, the dominant social classes were traditionally the scholars (educated elites), the farmers, the artisans, and the merchants. The Confucian social hierarchy emphasized the importance of education and filial piety, with scholars being highly respected in Chinese society.