Sociology Quiz Questions: Exam!
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Questions and Answers
- 1.
Choose the one social factor that does NOT promote social mobility.
- A.
Greater wealth
- B.
Greater education
- C.
Greater democracy
- D.
Lessened immigration
Correct Answer
D. Lessened immigrationExplanation
Lessened immigration does not promote social mobility because it restricts the movement of individuals from one country to another. Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals to move up or down the social ladder based on factors such as education, wealth, and opportunities. When immigration is limited, it reduces the potential for individuals to access new opportunities, resources, and social networks in different countries, which can hinder their ability to improve their social status and achieve upward mobility.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What did Marx call the class that does NOT own the means of production and must sell its labor to those who do?
- A.
The working class
- B.
The underclass
- C.
Labor
- D.
The proletariat
Correct Answer
D. The proletariatExplanation
Marx referred to the class that does not own the means of production and has to sell its labor to those who do as "the proletariat." This term is used to describe the working class, who are dependent on wages earned through their labor. Marx believed that the proletariat, due to their exploitation and alienation under capitalism, would eventually rise up and overthrow the bourgeoisie to establish a communist society.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which measure of social class ranks people on income, education, occupation, or some combination?
- A.
Status
- B.
Class
- C.
Socioeconomic status
- D.
Prestige indicators
Correct Answer
C. Socioeconomic statusExplanation
Socioeconomic status is a measure of social class that ranks individuals based on their income, education, occupation, or a combination of these factors. It takes into account various indicators of social standing and economic well-being to determine an individual's position in society. This measure provides a comprehensive understanding of an individual's social class, considering both their economic resources and social prestige.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The richest 20 percent of the U.S. population hold approximately what percent of total income?
- A.
20%
- B.
30%
- C.
50%
- D.
90%
Correct Answer
C. 50%Explanation
The correct answer is 50% because it states that the richest 20 percent of the U.S. population hold approximately what percent of total income. This means that out of the total income in the country, the top 20 percent of the population holds 50% of it.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Men are ______ likely as women to die in a motor vehicle accident.
- A.
Half
- B.
Twice
- C.
Four times
- D.
Twenty times
Correct Answer
C. Four timesExplanation
Men are four times more likely than women to die in a motor vehicle accident. This means that the probability of men dying in a motor vehicle accident is four times higher compared to women. This could be due to various factors such as differences in driving behavior, risk-taking tendencies, or physical characteristics. However, without further information, it is not possible to determine the exact reasons behind this statistic.Rate this question:
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- 6.
When men end up alone (never married, divorced, widowed):
- A.
They are happier
- B.
The form support networks
- C.
They are more successful at work
- D.
Their health suffers
Correct Answer
D. Their health suffersExplanation
When men end up alone, their health suffers. This could be due to various factors such as increased stress levels, lack of emotional support, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and decreased motivation to take care of oneself. Being alone can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can negatively impact mental and physical well-being. Additionally, without a partner to provide companionship and support, men may be less likely to seek medical help or engage in healthy behaviors, leading to poorer overall health outcomes.Rate this question:
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- 7.
In 2009, full-time, full-year female workers earned an all-time high of ______ percent of what men earn.
- A.
94
- B.
86
- C.
78
- D.
68
Correct Answer
C. 78Explanation
In 2009, full-time, full-year female workers earned an all-time high of 78 percent of what men earn. This means that women earned 78% of what men earned in terms of wages. This indicates progress towards gender pay equality, as women were earning a higher percentage compared to previous years.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Informal discrimination that serves as a barrier to women’s promotions in traditionally male careers is known as:
- A.
The glass ceiling
- B.
Limited achievement
- C.
Glass escalators
- D.
The glass bottomed boat
Correct Answer
A. The glass ceilingExplanation
The correct answer is the glass ceiling. The glass ceiling refers to the invisible barriers that prevent women from advancing to higher positions in traditionally male-dominated careers. It represents the discriminatory practices and attitudes that limit women's opportunities for promotion and career advancement. This term highlights the gender inequality and lack of diversity in leadership positions.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of these would be MOST likely to report experiencing sexual harassment?
- A.
Male college students
- B.
Female college students
- C.
Male non-college students
- D.
Female non-college students
Correct Answer
D. Female non-college studentsExplanation
Female non-college students would be most likely to report experiencing sexual harassment. This is because non-college students may have fewer resources and support systems available to them compared to college students. Additionally, women in general are more likely to experience sexual harassment compared to men, and being in a non-college setting may further increase their vulnerability.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The classic sociological theory of illness was first formulated by:
- A.
Marx
- B.
Weber
- C.
Talcott Parsons
- D.
Durkheim
Correct Answer
C. Talcott ParsonsExplanation
Talcott Parsons is considered the first to formulate the classic sociological theory of illness. He argued that illness is not only a biological phenomenon but also a social one, influenced by cultural norms and values. Parsons emphasized the role of the sick role, which is a set of rights and responsibilities that society assigns to individuals who are ill. He believed that the sick role serves as a mechanism for maintaining social order and regulating the behavior of sick individuals. Parsons' theory has had a significant impact on the field of medical sociology.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following is a norm associated with the sick role?
- A.
Sick people should enjoy being sick
- B.
Sick people should be helf responsible their own illness
- C.
Sick people should seek and follow medical advice
- D.
Sick people should work as much as they can, despite their illness
Correct Answer
C. Sick people should seek and follow medical adviceExplanation
The norm associated with the sick role is that sick people should seek and follow medical advice. This means that when individuals are sick, they are expected to actively seek help from medical professionals and comply with their recommendations in order to recover and restore their health. This norm emphasizes the importance of seeking appropriate medical care and following the advice provided by healthcare professionals to effectively manage and treat illnesses.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Women are:
- A.
Less likely to live in a nursing home than men
- B.
More likely to live longer than men
- C.
Less likely to be disabled than men
- D.
Report better health than men
Correct Answer
B. More likely to live longer than menExplanation
Women are more likely to live longer than men due to several factors. Firstly, women tend to have a biological advantage as they have two X chromosomes, which may provide better protection against certain diseases and genetic conditions. Additionally, women generally engage in healthier behaviors such as seeking medical care more often, following preventive measures, and having healthier lifestyles. Social factors such as lower rates of occupational hazards and risky behaviors also contribute to women's longer lifespan. Overall, these factors contribute to women's higher life expectancy compared to men.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The most commonly reported forms of mental illness in the U.S. are:
- A.
Major depression and problems with alcohol
- B.
Obsessive compulsive disorder and depression
- C.
Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
- D.
Alcohol and drug abuse
Correct Answer
A. Major depression and problems with alcoholExplanation
Major depression and problems with alcohol are the most commonly reported forms of mental illness in the U.S. This suggests that many individuals in the country experience symptoms of depression and also struggle with alcohol abuse or dependence. These two conditions often coexist, with alcohol being used as a form of self-medication for depressive symptoms. It is important to address both major depression and alcohol problems in order to provide comprehensive and effective treatment for individuals dealing with these mental health issues.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Rates of depression are highest among
- A.
A. Working mothers and father
- B.
B. Unemployed men
- C.
C. Married mothers and unemployed women
- D.
D. Women without children or husbands
Correct Answer
C. C. Married mothers and unemployed womenExplanation
The correct answer is c. Married mothers and unemployed women. This is because being married and having children can bring additional stress and responsibilities, which can increase the risk of depression. Additionally, being unemployed can also contribute to feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, leading to higher rates of depression among unemployed women.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The family differs from other social institutions in that it:
- A.
A. May be biological as well as social
- B.
B. Is an organized pattern of social interaction for meeting a societal need
- C.
C. Is important for the maintenance of society
- D.
D. None of these; the family doesn’t differ from other social institutions
Correct Answer
A. A. May be biological as well as socialExplanation
The correct answer is a. The family may be biological as well as social. This means that the family can be based on blood relationships (biological) or on social relationships such as marriage or adoption. Unlike other social institutions, such as education or government, the family has both biological and social dimensions.Rate this question:
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- 16.
About _____ American children grow up in poverty
- A.
A. One in two
- B.
B. One in five
- C.
C. One in ten
- D.
D. One in twenty
Correct Answer
B. B. One in fiveExplanation
Approximately one in five American children grow up in poverty. This means that out of every five children in the United States, one of them is living in poverty. Poverty can have a significant impact on a child's well-being, including their access to education, healthcare, and basic necessities. It is a concerning issue that requires attention and efforts to address and alleviate the effects of poverty on children's lives.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Homogamy refers to:
- A.
A. People marrying others similar to themselves
- B.
B. People marrying others different from themselves
- C.
C. Homosexual marriages
- D.
D. Marrying people on the basis of physical attractiveness
Correct Answer
A. A. People marrying others similar to themselvesExplanation
Homogamy refers to people marrying others similar to themselves. This means that individuals tend to choose partners who share similar characteristics such as education level, socioeconomic status, religious beliefs, and values. Homogamy is often based on the principle of assortative mating, where individuals are attracted to others who are similar to them in various aspects. This can contribute to the formation of stable and harmonious relationships as partners have common interests and understand each other better.Rate this question:
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- 18.
_________ Grandparents report that they see their grandchildren at least once per month and have a good relationship with them.
- A.
A. Few
- B.
About 10%
- C.
About 20%
- D.
Most
Correct Answer
D. MostExplanation
The answer "most" is correct because it implies that the majority of grandparents report seeing their grandchildren at least once per month and having a good relationship with them. This suggests that a significant portion of grandparents have regular contact and positive interactions with their grandchildren.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Approximately what percent of all births in the U.S. are to unmarried women?
- A.
10%
- B.
20%
- C.
33%
- D.
40%
Correct Answer
D. 40%Explanation
Approximately 40% of all births in the U.S. are to unmarried women. This suggests that a significant portion of the population is choosing not to marry before having children. This could be due to various reasons such as changing societal norms, personal choices, or economic factors. The high percentage also indicates the need for social and economic support systems for unmarried mothers and their children.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The function of education that pertains to the teach of specific skills such as reading and mathematics is known as:
- A.
A. Selection and allocation
- B.
B. Training and knowledge
- C.
C. Social control
- D.
D. Socialization
Correct Answer
B. B. Training and knowledgeExplanation
The function of education that pertains to the teaching of specific skills such as reading and mathematics is known as "Training and knowledge." This function of education focuses on imparting practical skills and knowledge to individuals, enabling them to acquire and develop specific abilities and competencies. It emphasizes the importance of acquiring essential skills and knowledge that are necessary for individuals to succeed in their personal and professional lives.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The practice of evaluating children relatively early in their school experience and encouraging them to follow a particular educational program based on these evaluations is known as:
- A.
A. Counseling
- B.
B. Facilitating
- C.
C. Tracking
- D.
D. Curriculum planning
Correct Answer
C. C. TrackingExplanation
Tracking is the correct answer because it refers to the practice of evaluating children early in their school experience and then placing them in specific educational programs based on these evaluations. This practice aims to group students with similar abilities and needs together, allowing for tailored instruction and support. Tracking can help ensure that students receive appropriate educational opportunities and resources that meet their individual needs and abilities.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A major reason that students who are tracked into low-ability groups learn less than other students is that they:
- A.
A. Are less likely to learn
- B.
B. Are taught less
- C.
C. Forget more
- D.
D. Are less willing to learn
Correct Answer
B. B. Are taught lessExplanation
Students who are tracked into low-ability groups learn less than other students because they are taught less. This means that they receive fewer instructional hours, less attention from teachers, and are not exposed to the same curriculum and resources as students in higher-ability groups. As a result, these students have fewer opportunities to engage with the material, practice their skills, and receive feedback, leading to lower academic achievement compared to their peers.Rate this question:
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- 23.
According to your text, the lasting contribution of Weber’s analysis of the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism is the idea that:
- A.
A. Religion is a totally independent institution
- B.
B. Protestantism revolutionized social institutions
- C.
C. Capitalism benefited Protestants more than others
- D.
D. Religion can be important element in social change
Correct Answer
D. D. Religion can be important element in social changeExplanation
The lasting contribution of Weber's analysis of the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism is the idea that religion can be an important element in social change. Weber argued that the Protestant work ethic, which emphasized hard work, frugality, and discipline, played a significant role in the development of capitalism. He believed that religious beliefs and values could shape economic behavior and have a profound impact on society. This idea challenged the prevailing notion that religion and economics were separate spheres, and it continues to influence sociological and historical studies on the relationship between religion and social change.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What is the fastest-growing major world religion?
- A.
A. Roman Catholicism
- B.
B. Judaism
- C.
C. Islam
- D.
D. Buddhism
Correct Answer
C. C. IslamExplanation
Islam is the fastest-growing major world religion due to a combination of factors. Firstly, the high birth rates among Muslim populations contribute to its rapid growth. Secondly, the increasing number of conversions to Islam also contributes to its expansion. Additionally, the spread of Islam through migration and globalization has further fueled its growth. Overall, these factors have led to Islam surpassing other major religions in terms of its growth rate.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The ability to get others to do something against their wishes is called:
- A.
A. Power
- B.
B. Influence
- C.
C. Politics
- D.
D. Conflict
Correct Answer
A. A. PowerExplanation
Power refers to the ability to get others to do something, even if they do not want to. It involves having control or authority over others and the ability to make decisions that others must follow. Power can be exerted through various means, such as through the use of force, coercion, manipulation, or persuasion. It is different from influence, which is the ability to persuade or convince others without necessarily having direct control or authority over them. Politics and conflict may be related to power, but they are not synonymous with it.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Power supported by norms and values that legitimate its use is termed:
- A.
A. Authority
- B.
B. Coercion
- C.
C. Influence
- D.
D. Tradition
Correct Answer
A. A. AuthorityExplanation
Authority refers to power that is supported by norms and values, which legitimize its use. It is the ability to influence others based on their belief in the legitimacy of the power holder's position or role. This legitimacy is derived from social norms, laws, and values that society recognizes and accepts. Authority is different from coercion, which involves the use of force or threats, and influence, which is the ability to persuade or convince others. Tradition, on the other hand, refers to the transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation and is not directly related to the legitimacy of power.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Decision-making power based on the sanctity of time-honored routines is called:
- A.
A. Charismatic authority
- B.
B. Rational-legal authority
- C.
C. Traditional authority
- D.
D. Moral authority
Correct Answer
C. C. Traditional authorityExplanation
Traditional authority refers to a form of decision-making power that is based on the sanctity of time-honored routines. It is a type of authority that is derived from long-standing customs, traditions, and beliefs. This form of authority is often seen in traditional societies or institutions where power is passed down through generations and is upheld by the collective acceptance and respect for established norms and practices. Traditional authority relies on the legitimacy of the past and the belief that these long-standing routines hold inherent value and should be followed.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Rational-legal authority is best described as:
- A.
A. Authority based on extraordinary personal characteristics
- B.
B. Authoryt based on the sactitiy of time honored routines
- C.
C. Authority based on submission to a set of reasonably established rules
- D.
D. Exceriseze of power through force or threat of force
Correct Answer
C. C. Authority based on submission to a set of reasonably established rulesExplanation
Rational-legal authority is best described as authority based on submission to a set of reasonably established rules. This means that individuals in positions of authority are granted power and legitimacy through a system of rules and laws that are rational and legally established. This type of authority is commonly found in bureaucratic systems, where rules and regulations guide decision-making and actions. It is different from authority based on personal characteristics or the use of force.Rate this question:
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- 29.
To say that the state claims a monopoly on the legitimate use of coercion means that:
- A.
A. All coercion by the state is legitimate
- B.
B. The state determines who can use coercion legitimately
- C.
C. All state power is coercive
- D.
D. The state is the only instituion that uses coercion
Correct Answer
B. B. The state determines who can use coercion legitimatelyExplanation
The correct answer is b. The state determines who can use coercion legitimately. This means that the state has the authority to decide when and how coercion can be used, and it sets the boundaries for what is considered legitimate use of force. This can include granting certain individuals or institutions the power to use coercion, such as the police or military, while also establishing laws and regulations to ensure that coercion is used in a controlled and justified manner.Rate this question:
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- 30.
C. Wright Mills is a central figure in the development of the:
- A.
A. Pluralistic model of American democracy
- B.
B. Conflict/dialectic model of pluralism
- C.
C. Power elite model
- D.
D. State automonomy model
Correct Answer
C. C. Power elite modelExplanation
C. Wright Mills is associated with the power elite model. This model suggests that power in society is concentrated in the hands of a small group of individuals who hold positions of authority in government, corporations, and the military. Mills argued that these elites make decisions that shape society and that they often act in their own self-interest rather than in the best interest of the general population. He believed that this concentration of power was a threat to democracy and called for greater awareness and activism to challenge the power elite.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Demography is the study of:
- A.
A. Population
- B.
B. Urbanization
- C.
C. Geography
- D.
D. Stratification
Correct Answer
A. A. PopulationExplanation
Demography is the study of population, including its size, structure, distribution, and changes over time. It involves analyzing various factors such as birth rates, death rates, migration patterns, and age distribution to understand the dynamics of a population. Demographers use statistical methods and data to study population trends, patterns, and characteristics, which helps in making informed decisions related to public health, social policies, and resource allocation. By focusing on population, demography provides valuable insights into the social, economic, and political aspects of a society.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The world’s population is currently approximately:
- A.
A. 10 billion
- B.
B. 8.7 billion
- C.
C. 6.3 billion
- D.
D. 3.4 billion
Correct Answer
C. C. 6.3 billionExplanation
The correct answer is c. 6.3 billion. This answer is based on the current estimated world population. As of 2021, the world population is estimated to be around 7.9 billion. However, since the question asks for the approximate population, the closest option is 6.3 billion.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The first major cause of declining mortality in the West was:
- A.
A. Modern medicine
- B.
B. Improvements in hygiene
- C.
C. Vaccinations
- D.
D. Improvements in nutrition
Correct Answer
D. D. Improvements in nutritionExplanation
Improvements in nutrition played a significant role in the declining mortality rates in the West. Access to better quality and more varied food, along with increased knowledge about proper nutrition, led to improved overall health and reduced susceptibility to diseases. Adequate nutrition provided the necessary nutrients for the body to function properly, strengthening the immune system and promoting overall well-being. This, in turn, contributed to lower mortality rates as people became less vulnerable to illnesses and had better chances of recovery.Rate this question:
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- 34.
With modern levels of mortality, replacement level fertility requires an average of _____ children per woman.
- A.
1.0
- B.
1.8
- C.
2.0
- D.
2.1
Correct Answer
D. 2.1Explanation
Replacement level fertility refers to the number of children a woman needs to have in order to replace herself and her partner in the population. With modern levels of mortality, the average number of children per woman that is required for replacement level fertility is 2.1. This means that, on average, each woman needs to have 2.1 children in order to maintain a stable population size.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Approximately ___ people in the world are seriously undernourished.
- A.
3 million
- B.
1 billion
- C.
1.5 billion
- D.
25 million
Correct Answer
C. 1.5 billionExplanation
Approximately 1.5 billion people in the world are seriously undernourished. This means that a significant portion of the global population does not have access to enough food to meet their basic nutritional needs. This issue of undernourishment is a major concern as it can lead to malnutrition, weakened immune systems, and a higher risk of disease and death. Efforts to address this problem include improving agricultural practices, promoting food security, and implementing social welfare programs to ensure that everyone has access to an adequate and nutritious diet.Rate this question:
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- 36.
The main difference between a social movement and a collective behavior is that:
- A.
A. Collective behavior is not violent
- B.
B. Social movements always involve a huge number of people and collective behavior doesn’t
- C.
C. Collective behavior is unplanned and social movements are organized
- D.
D. Collective behavior is planned and social movements are not
Correct Answer
C. C. Collective behavior is unplanned and social movements are organizedExplanation
The main difference between a social movement and collective behavior is that collective behavior is unplanned, while social movements are organized. Collective behavior refers to spontaneous and uncoordinated actions or behaviors of a group of people, often in response to a specific event or situation. In contrast, social movements involve a deliberate and organized effort by a large number of individuals to bring about social or political change. Social movements typically have specific goals, strategies, and leadership structures, whereas collective behavior is more spontaneous and lacks formal organization.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which of the following is not a criticism of the relative-deprivation theory:
- A.
A. Those who are most deprived are not necessarily those most likely to participate in social movements
- B.
B. Individuals participate in social movements on behalf of groups to which they do not belong
- C.
C. Relative-deprivation theory focuses too much on the underlying causes of deprivation and the conditions that lead to organization of a movement
- D.
D. The theory doesn’t specify the conditions under which deprivation will lead to social movements
Correct Answer
C. C. Relative-deprivation theory focuses too much on the underlying causes of deprivation and the conditions that lead to organization of a movementExplanation
The criticism in option c suggests that the relative-deprivation theory places excessive emphasis on the causes of deprivation and the factors that result in the formation of a social movement. In other words, it argues that the theory does not adequately address other important aspects of social movements, such as the dynamics of collective action or the role of external factors.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The average American generates ____ pounds of garbage each week.
- A.
6
- B.
10
- C.
35
- D.
140
Correct Answer
C. 35Explanation
The average American generates 35 pounds of garbage each week. This is a significant amount of waste that is produced on a regular basis. It highlights the need for better waste management and recycling practices to reduce the environmental impact of this waste.Rate this question:
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