C273 Introduction to Sociology Practice Questions - Set 3 - Part 1

Correct Answer: d) Conflict Theory

The sociological perspective that views society as an arena of inequality that generates conflict and change is the conflict perspective.

Correct Answer: b) Low levels of social integration

Emile Durkheim linked high rates of suicide with social integration and the lack thereof, specifically identifying that low levels of social integration can lead to higher suicide rates.

Correct Answer: b) Social Darwinism

Social Darwinism, promoted by Herbert Spencer, suggests that societies evolve over time in a manner similar to biological organisms.

Correct Answer: c) Positivism

Comte introduced the concept of positivism, advocating for the application of scientific methods to study social phenomena.

Correct Answer: b) Bourgeoisie

The bourgeoisie are the capitalists who own the means of production in Marx's theory of class struggle.

Correct Answer: d) Random Sample

A random sample allows each member of the target population an equal probability of selection, helping to reduce bias.

Correct Answer: a) Through observation and imitation

Symbolic interactionism emphasizes that individuals learn behaviors through observing, interpreting, and imitating the actions of others.

Correct Answer: d) Glass Ceiling

The glass ceiling refers to unseen obstacles that prevent women and minorities from advancing in their careers.

Correct Answer: d) Strain Theory

Strain theory, developed by Robert Merton, posits that deviance arises when individuals cannot achieve socially valued goals through accepted means.

Correct Answer: c) Karl Marx

Karl Marx is credited with developing conflict theory, focusing on the role of economic inequalities and class conflicts in driving social change.

Correct Answer: c) Symbolic Interactionism

Symbolic interactionism studies small-scale interactions, particularly how individuals use symbols to communicate and construct social reality.

Correct Answer: c) Bureaucracy

Max Weber argued that bureaucracies, with their structured hierarchies and rules, are fundamental to the efficient organization of modern societies.

Correct Answer: c) Protecting the rights and dignity of research participants

Ethical standards in sociology aim to ensure that research respects participants’ rights, including informed consent and privacy.

Correct Answer: b) George Herbert Mead

Mead’s concept of the generalized other refers to the collective norms, values, and expectations internalized by individuals, helping them navigate society.

Correct Answer: b) Ethnocentrism

Ethnocentrism involves judging other cultures based on one’s own cultural standards, often leading to a perception of cultural superiority.

Correct Answer: c) Manifest Functions

Manifest functions are the intended and overtly recognized consequences of social actions, while latent functions are unintended.

Correct Answer: b) Differential Association Theory

Edwin Sutherland’s differential association theory posits that deviant behavior is learned through interactions with others who engage in deviant acts.

Correct Answer: b) Proletariat

Marx’s term "proletariat" refers to the working class, who are exploited by the bourgeoisie, or capitalists, in his theory of class struggle.

Correct Answer: a) Social norms are absent or ineffective

Durkheim used the term "pathological" to describe societies in a state of anomie, where norms break down and social cohesion is weak.

Correct Answer: c) To ensure the most qualified individuals fill the most important roles

Functionalists argue that social stratification places people in roles where they can best contribute to society based on their abilities.