Difference between cross cutting social differences …

Over lapping social difference: If social differences overlap each other it may lead to social division and if one social difference is given preference then people would begin to think that they belong to different community. It always leads to social division and disintegration of the country. Example:- USA: The blacks are discriminated by the whites due to their poverty (racial discrimination).

Cross cutting social difference:  If social difference cross-cut each other we would find it difficult to find which group is against the other. These groups may have similar views on some issues and different on other issues.  It encourages diversity and accommodates unity. 
Example:- NETHERLAND: The main religion here is Christianity. They have division as Catholics and Protestants. Here class and religion cross-cut each other. Neither of them are rich or poor and do not have conflict between them.