CLEP Intro To Sociology Test Prep

The first social contact for most individuals is typically within their family. This is because the family is the primary unit of socialization, where individuals learn social norms, values, and behaviors. Family members provide emotional support, care, and guidance, which are essential for the development of social skills and relationships. Therefore, it is highly likely that one's first social contact would occur within the family.

Sociology is the study of human behavior in relation to society and the environment. It focuses on understanding how individuals and groups interact within their social surroundings and how these interactions shape their behavior, beliefs, and attitudes. Sociology examines various aspects of human life, such as culture, social institutions, social inequality, and social change. By studying sociology, researchers gain insights into the ways in which individuals are influenced by their environment and how they, in turn, shape their surroundings.

Demography is the study of human populations, specifically their size, structure, and distribution. It involves categorizing people based on various factors such as age, race, and gender. However, "preference" is not a characteristic that can be used to categorize populations in demography. Preference refers to personal choices or inclinations, which are subjective and can vary greatly among individuals. Therefore, preference does not fit into the objective and measurable criteria that demography typically considers.

Population is primarily affected by birth rate, death rate, and migration. Employment is not directly related to population growth or decline. While employment opportunities may influence migration patterns, it is not a direct factor in determining population size.

August Comte is considered the father of sociology because he was the first person to use the term "sociology" and establish it as a distinct academic discipline. Comte believed that sociology should be based on scientific principles and study society as a whole, rather than focusing on individual behavior. He also emphasized the importance of social order and stability in society. Comte's ideas and theories laid the foundation for the development of sociology as a field of study.

Cultural shock refers to the feeling of disorientation and discomfort that individuals experience when they are exposed to a new culture or environment. It is a common reaction when encountering unfamiliar customs, beliefs, and social norms. This feeling can arise from differences in language, food, social interactions, and overall way of life. Cultural shock can be a result of both positive and negative experiences, as it challenges one's preconceived notions and forces them to adapt to a new cultural context.

Forced is not a feature of culture because culture is typically not imposed or enforced upon individuals. Culture is primarily learned, shared, and dynamic, as it is passed down through generations, shared among members of a society, and subject to change over time. However, the concept of forcing culture contradicts the voluntary nature of cultural practices and beliefs.

Culture encompasses all aspects of a society's way of life, including its values, heritage, lifestyle, and more. It refers to the shared beliefs, customs, behaviors, and artifacts that characterize a particular group or community. Culture plays a crucial role in shaping individuals' identities, influencing their behaviors, and providing a sense of belonging. It is transmitted from generation to generation and evolves over time through social interactions. Therefore, culture is the most comprehensive and accurate answer among the given options.

Culture allows adaptation to different environments because it encompasses the shared beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors of a particular group of people. Through cultural practices, individuals can learn and acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate and thrive in their specific environment. Culture provides a framework for understanding and interacting with the world, allowing individuals to adapt their behavior, communication, and problem-solving strategies to different social, economic, and ecological contexts. This adaptability is crucial for survival and success in diverse environments.

Edward Taylor is the correct answer because he defined sociology as "that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, morals, law, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society." This definition emphasizes the comprehensive nature of sociology, encompassing various aspects of human life and society. August Comte and Emile Durkheim are well-known sociologists, but they did not provide this specific definition. Taylor Golding is not a recognized sociologist.