Pols 320 Midterm Exam Review Multiple Choice Questions (Part One)
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According to Thomas Dye, public policy is:
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Who gets what, when, where and how
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Actions taken by governments and their agents to address public problems
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Whatever governments choose to do or not to do
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Unconscious choices made by elected representatives
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This quiz assesses knowledge of public policy concepts, research methods in political science, and policy implications. It includes questions on the nature of public policy, research accuracy, and theoretical predictions, suitable for students preparing for midterms in political science.
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- 2.
Level of confidence is:
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The trust put in policy communities under open government models of public policy decision making
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A recognition that the sample size should have been larger
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Said to be increasing in Canada when it comes to our views of elected representatives because of changes in our political culture
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The extent of accuracy you want when you are making the jump from what your sample says you are studying, and what the entire population would say, if you asked them all
Correct Answer
A. The extent of accuracy you want when you are making the jump from what your sample says you are studying, and what the entire population would say, if you asked them allExplanation
The correct answer is the extent of accuracy you want when you are making the jump from what your sample says you are studying, and what the entire population would say, if you asked them all. This explanation aligns with the concept of level of confidence in statistics. It refers to the degree of certainty or precision desired in estimating population parameters based on sample data. The level of confidence indicates how confident one can be that the sample accurately represents the population.Rate this question:
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- 3.
This kind of political research can allow political scientists to make predictions, based on the discovery of past patterns and similarities:
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Normative philosophy
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Positive theory
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Engineering research
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Theory-oriented research
Correct Answer
A. Theory-oriented researchExplanation
Theory-oriented research is the correct answer because it involves studying past patterns and similarities in order to make predictions. Political scientists use this type of research to develop theories and hypotheses about political behavior and outcomes. By analyzing historical data and identifying recurring patterns, they can make informed predictions about future events. This approach is different from normative philosophy, which focuses on ethical and moral principles, positive theory, which aims to explain and understand political phenomena, and engineering research, which applies scientific principles to solve practical problems.Rate this question:
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- 4.
How are public problems created?
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They are just out there, objectively existing, waiting to be found
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Mostly from natural occurrences
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Mostly by us
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Public problems don’t exist actually, we just think they do
Correct Answer
A. Mostly by usExplanation
Public problems are primarily created by us, the members of society. These problems arise due to our actions, decisions, and behaviors. They are not simply objective occurrences waiting to be discovered, nor are they mostly caused by natural phenomena. Instead, public problems are a result of societal issues, such as inequality, poverty, crime, environmental degradation, and political conflicts. These problems exist because we perceive and acknowledge them as such, and they require our collective efforts to address and solve them.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A public pronouncement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs at a press conference, stating that Canada will not send foreign aid to a country that abuses human rights, is an example of public policy as:
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What governments deliberately choose to do
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What governments deliberately choose not to do
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What governments unknowingly choose to do
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What governments unknowingly choose not to do
Correct Answer
A. What governments deliberately choose not to doExplanation
This statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs indicates that Canada will not send foreign aid to a country that abuses human rights. This decision is an example of what governments deliberately choose not to do. The government has made a conscious choice to withhold foreign aid as a response to human rights abuses, demonstrating a deliberate decision to refrain from providing assistance to countries engaging in such behavior.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The larger the population, the greater is the needed sample size. However,
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A larger sample size is not necessarily required for a random sample
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A larger sample size is not necessarily required for a purposive sample
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After a point, an ever-increasing sample size will have a relatively small impact on the accuracy of your sample
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After a point, an ever-increasing sample size will have a beneficial impact on the accuracy of your sample
Correct Answer
A. After a point, an ever-increasing sample size will have a relatively small impact on the accuracy of your sampleExplanation
As the population size increases, the needed sample size also increases to accurately represent the population. However, there comes a point where increasing the sample size further will have a relatively small impact on the accuracy of the sample. This means that after reaching a certain sample size, the additional increase in sample size will not significantly improve the accuracy of the sample. Therefore, the statement suggests that there is a diminishing return in accuracy when continuously increasing the sample size beyond a certain point.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Political research methodologies allow us to:
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Observe the political world in a more systematic manner
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Find the truth regarding a public problem
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Conclusively determine that our friends at the Tim Hortons are wrong about the war in Iraq
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Prove that the capitalist economic system is or is not predominant in Canada
Correct Answer
A. Observe the political world in a more systematic mannerExplanation
Political research methodologies allow us to observe the political world in a more systematic manner. This means that by using specific research methods and techniques, we can gather data, analyze it, and draw conclusions about political phenomena. These methodologies provide a structured approach to studying politics, ensuring that the research is rigorous and reliable. By observing the political world in a systematic manner, we can better understand and explain political processes, behaviors, and outcomes.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following could be considered not to be a public policy?
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Financial assistance for those that fall below a government-accepted definition of poverty
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Commissioning of an opera about Louis Riel to educate about Canada’s rich history
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Requiring that all research assistants hired by your business have attained a post-secondary degree
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Enforcing a maximum number of children per family to address overpopulation
Correct Answer
A. Requiring that all research assistants hired by your business have attained a post-secondary degreeExplanation
This option may not be considered a public policy because it pertains to a specific requirement for hiring research assistants in a business, rather than a broader societal issue or goal. Public policies typically involve actions taken by the government to address societal concerns or achieve certain objectives that affect the general public. In this case, the requirement for a post-secondary degree is more related to the specific needs and preferences of the business, rather than a policy aimed at benefitting the public as a whole.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A case is:
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Your selections from the population that you will use to generalize about it
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A single person or thing
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Characteristics of a population
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A single unit in the formula for determining sampling error
Correct Answer
A. A single person or thingExplanation
The correct answer is "a single person or thing." This option accurately describes what a case is - it refers to an individual or an object that is being studied or analyzed in a research or statistical context. In research, a case can represent a single participant or observation, and it is often used to draw conclusions or make generalizations about a larger population.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Unidimensional concepts:
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Include variables which cannot be measured unambiguously
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Include “power,” “class,” and “political participation”
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Frame theories in terms of concepts that cannot be easily subdivided into further distinct meanings
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Frame theories in terms of concepts that are easily subdivided into further distinct meanings
Correct Answer
A. Frame theories in terms of concepts that cannot be easily subdivided into further distinct meaningsExplanation
Unidimensional concepts are variables that cannot be measured unambiguously and cannot be easily subdivided into further distinct meanings. These concepts are often abstract and cannot be broken down into smaller, more specific components. By framing theories in terms of these unidimensional concepts, it becomes easier to understand and analyze complex ideas without the need for further subdivisions. This allows for a more straightforward and comprehensive approach to studying and explaining various phenomena.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Political research is important to:
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Prevent haphazard policy decisions being taken
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Help us advance our understanding of the political world
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Facilitate critical thinking
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Confirm or reject anecdotal observations
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All of the above
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
Political research is important because it helps prevent haphazard policy decisions by providing evidence-based information and analysis. It also helps us advance our understanding of the political world by studying and analyzing political systems, institutions, and processes. Furthermore, political research facilitates critical thinking by encouraging individuals to question assumptions and evaluate different perspectives. Lastly, it plays a crucial role in confirming or rejecting anecdotal observations by providing empirical evidence and data to support or challenge these observations. Therefore, all of the above statements are valid reasons for the importance of political research.Rate this question:
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- 12.
For types of political research, surveys could represent or be a part of:
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Normative philosophy
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Basic research
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Engineering research
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Applied research
Correct Answer
A. Engineering researchExplanation
Surveys in political research can be considered as a part of engineering research because they involve the systematic collection and analysis of data to inform policy-making and decision-making processes. Engineering research focuses on practical applications and problem-solving, which aligns with the purpose of surveys in political research. Surveys are used to gather data from a large sample of individuals, which can then be analyzed to understand public opinion, voting patterns, and other political phenomena. The findings from surveys can be used to design and implement policies and strategies that address societal issues, making it a form of engineering research in the political context.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A sample of half of Canada’s 11 million female voters would be more accurate than a sample of a million of them. However,
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Both sample sizes are unnecessary to get relatively accurate information
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The margin of error would be the same for both sample sizes
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The margin of error for the million-sized sample would be considered too small
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The probability of obtaining a representative sample is still too low for the half-million sample
Correct Answer
A. Both sample sizes are unnecessary to get relatively accurate information -
- 14.
Information on a policy can be found:
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In a judicial decision
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On a memo written by an Assistant Deputy Minister
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On a government website
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All of the above
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None of the above
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above." This means that information on a policy can be found in a judicial decision, on a memo written by an Assistant Deputy Minister, and on a government website. This suggests that there are multiple sources where one can access information related to a policy, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.Rate this question:
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- 15.
If there is really no pure science of problem recognition and problem definition, then,
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Level of development in a society, focusing images and natural disasters dictate how we determine what a public policy is or is not
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Public problems can never be properly defined
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Public problems can never be fully addressed by public policy
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None of the above
Correct Answer
A. None of the above -
- 16.
Apart from public policy goals, the policy instrument, the global context of public policy making, and so on, ________ also contributes to our understanding of what the public policy is:
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Political research methods
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Sample size
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Policy image
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Supplementary estimates
Correct Answer
A. Policy imageExplanation
Policy image refers to the perception or reputation of a particular public policy among the general public or stakeholders. It contributes to our understanding of public policy by highlighting how the policy is perceived, whether it is seen as effective or ineffective, and how it is communicated to the public. Policy image can influence public support, political feasibility, and the overall success of a policy. Therefore, considering policy image is important in understanding the impact and effectiveness of public policy.Rate this question:
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- 17.
If a survey finds that Canadians support policy preference (A) by 53% and policy (B) by 47%, and the margin of error is +/-3%, then:
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Policy preference (A) likely has the most support among Canadians
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Policy preference (B) likely has the least support among Canadians
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Policy preference (A) and (B) have an equal amount of support among Canadians
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All of the above
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None of the above
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
The given answer "all of the above" is correct because the survey results indicate that policy preference (A) has 53% support and policy preference (B) has 47% support. Since the margin of error is +/-3%, it is possible that the actual support for policy preference (A) could be as low as 50% and policy preference (B) could be as high as 50%. Therefore, it is likely that policy preference (A) has the most support, policy preference (B) has the least support, and they have an equal amount of support among Canadians.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following is not a factor determining how problems come to be defined?
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The level of development of a society
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A policy maker’s personal beliefs
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Living within a flood plain
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The MP had an affair with the head of an interest group
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All of the above
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(a), (b) and (c) only
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above." This means that all of the options listed are factors that determine how problems come to be defined. The level of development of a society, a policy maker's personal beliefs, living within a flood plain, and the MP having an affair with the head of an interest group can all contribute to how problems are defined. These factors can shape the perspectives and priorities of individuals and institutions, influencing how they perceive and address problems.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Problem definition:
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Has developed into an exact science
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Affects all subsequent stages of policy development
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Attempts to explain new issues that have arisen
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Comes before the development of a solution to a problem
Correct Answer
A. Affects all subsequent stages of policy developmentExplanation
The given answer suggests that the development of an exact science affects all subsequent stages of policy development. This implies that when a problem is approached scientifically and systematically, it has an impact on the entire process of policy development. It indicates that the scientific approach influences the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies, ensuring that they are well-informed and effective.Rate this question:
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- 20.
For political research, a population is:
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The group we are studying
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Usually a portion of the total population of the state, province, region or city you wish to examine
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A set of items that you want to analyze
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The aggregate of cases
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All of the above
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
In political research, a population refers to all of the above options mentioned in the question. It can be the group that is being studied, which could be a specific subset of the total population of a state, province, region, or city. It can also be a set of items or cases that are being analyzed. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above" as all the options accurately describe what a population is in political research.Rate this question:
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- 21.
If you wish to answer a specific political research question, use:
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Applied research methods
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Positive theory
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Theory-oriented research
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Basic research
Correct Answer
A. Applied research methodsExplanation
Applied research methods refer to the practical application of research techniques and methodologies to address specific real-world problems or issues. This type of research focuses on providing practical solutions and recommendations that can be implemented in a specific context. It involves the use of various data collection and analysis techniques to gather information and generate insights that can inform decision-making and policy development. Applied research methods are often used in fields such as social sciences, medicine, engineering, and business, where the aim is to solve practical problems and improve existing practices.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A public problem:
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Must be clear to many people
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Is a crisis that requires addressing
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Always has a solution that can be developed in the policy process
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Does not have to be a public problem at all
Correct Answer
A. Does not have to be a public problem at allExplanation
A public problem refers to an issue or concern that affects a significant number of people or the general public. However, not all problems or concerns are considered public problems. Some issues may only impact a specific group or individuals and may not have broader implications for society as a whole. Therefore, it is not necessary for every problem to be classified as a public problem.Rate this question:
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- 23.
“Liberal democratic states are superior to autocratic states because the respect for the rule of law in a liberal democratic state is a matter of basic human morality.” This statement best represents an example of:
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Empirical research
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Positive theory
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Engineering research
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Theory-oriented research
Correct Answer
A. Positive theoryExplanation
This statement best represents a positive theory because it makes a normative claim about the superiority of liberal democratic states based on the assumption that the respect for the rule of law in such states is a matter of basic human morality. A positive theory seeks to explain and understand social phenomena by making empirical observations and formulating hypotheses, rather than prescribing what should be. In this case, the statement is not based on empirical evidence but rather on a normative belief about what is morally right.Rate this question:
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- 24.
“Liberal democratic states should be supported over autocratic states because they are more tolerant of internal dissent.” This statement best represents an example of:
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Normative philosophy
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Positive theory
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Engineering research
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Theory-oriented research
Correct Answer
A. Engineering researchExplanation
The statement suggests a practical approach to supporting liberal democratic states over autocratic states based on the belief that liberal democratic states are more tolerant of internal dissent. This aligns with the concept of engineering research, which focuses on finding practical solutions to real-world problems. It does not fit under normative philosophy, which deals with ethical and moral principles, or positive theory, which aims to explain and predict phenomena. Theory-oriented research is more focused on developing and testing theories rather than practical applications.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Surveys:
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Fail to make any kind of generalization about a population
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Do not necessarily require cases to obtain desired information
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Determine a specific characteristic of a population
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Estimate a specific characteristic of a population
Correct Answer
A. Estimate a specific characteristic of a populationExplanation
Surveys are a research method used to estimate a specific characteristic of a population. They involve collecting data from a sample of individuals to make inferences about the larger population. Surveys are designed to gather information on a specific topic or characteristic, such as opinions, behaviors, or demographics. By analyzing the responses received, researchers can estimate or make predictions about the characteristic being studied in the wider population. Surveys are not meant to make generalizations about the entire population, but rather provide an estimate based on the sample data collected.Rate this question:
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- 26.
“Good theory” should have:
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Complexity, predictive accuracy and importance
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Simplicity, predictive accuracy and importance
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The ability to apply narrowly to a particular question
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Multidimensional concepts
Correct Answer
A. Simplicity, predictive accuracy and importanceExplanation
A "good theory" should have simplicity, predictive accuracy, and importance. Simplicity refers to the theory being easy to understand and explain. Predictive accuracy means that the theory should be able to accurately predict outcomes or events. Importance implies that the theory should be relevant and have practical value. These three qualities together make a theory effective and useful in the field it pertains to.Rate this question:
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- 27.
An antecedent variable is:
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The variable that occurs prior to all other variables and that may affect other independent variables
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The variable that occurs after all other variables and that may affect other independent variables
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The variable that occurs closer in time to the dependent variable than the independent variable
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The variable that is not related to the relationship at all
Correct Answer
A. The variable that occurs prior to all other variables and that may affect other independent variablesExplanation
An antecedent variable is the variable that occurs prior to all other variables and may have an impact on other independent variables. It is important because it can influence the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. By occurring before other variables, it has the potential to shape or influence the values of the other variables. Therefore, understanding and controlling for antecedent variables is crucial in research to accurately assess the relationship between variables and avoid confounding factors.Rate this question:
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- 28.
How well will I do on the midterm exam?
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Excellent
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Good
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Satisfactory
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Poor
Correct Answer
A. ExcellentExplanation
The answer "Excellent" suggests that the person will perform exceptionally well on the midterm exam. This implies that they have a strong understanding of the material and are likely to achieve a high score.Rate this question:
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Oct 17, 2023Quiz Edited by
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