Sociological Theory Final Exam Practice

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In order to realize a civil society, we must be open to the idea of equal rights for all.
- True
- False

About This Quiz

This practice exam for 'Sociological Theory Final Exam' assesses understanding of key sociological theories and concepts. It covers phases of sociological knowledge, Enlightenment ideas, Positivism, and the role of theory in explaining phenomena. Essential for students preparing for advanced sociology exams.

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2.

Which of the following is NOT one of the three theoretical frameworks within the field of sociology?
- Social Physics
- Structural Functionalism
- Social Conflict
- Symbolic Interactionism
Correct Answer

A. Social Physics

Explanation

Social Physics is not one of the three theoretical frameworks within the field of sociology. The three theoretical frameworks in sociology are Structural Functionalism, Social Conflict, and Symbolic Interactionism. Social Physics is not a recognized theoretical framework in sociology, but rather a term that refers to the application of scientific methods and principles to the study of social behavior.

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3.

One aspect of the "spirit" of capitalism is that making money is no longer a means to an end but rather is the end (the goal) of rational capitalism.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

The statement suggests that in capitalism, the ultimate goal is to make money rather than using money as a means to achieve other objectives. This implies that individuals and businesses in a capitalist system prioritize profit-making above all else, shaping their decisions and actions accordingly.

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4.

The modern world is one where we are ultimately concerned with developing an individual self, a self that stands out and is differentiated from others.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

In the modern world, there is a strong emphasis on individualism and personal development. People strive to stand out and be unique, expressing their own thoughts, beliefs, and identities. This focus on developing an individual self is evident in various aspects of life, such as career choices, personal branding, and social media. Therefore, it can be concluded that the statement "The modern world is one where we are ultimately concerned with developing an individual self, a self that stands out and is differentiated from others" is true.

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5.

Conflicts are less likely to be violent if there appears to be legitimate means to resolving.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Conflicts are less likely to be violent if there are legitimate means to resolving them. When there are established procedures and mechanisms in place for resolving conflicts, it creates a sense of fairness and trust among the parties involved. This reduces the chances of resorting to violence as a means of resolving the conflict. Legitimate means of resolution can include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or legal processes, which provide a structured and peaceful way to address differences and find mutually acceptable solutions.

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1
6.

Critical theory in the United States is more of a social action oriented approach than its European or Postmodern counterparts.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

In the United States, critical theory is primarily focused on social action and creating social change. This approach emphasizes the importance of activism and practical solutions to address social issues. In contrast, European and postmodern counterparts of critical theory may place more emphasis on theoretical analysis and critique. Therefore, the statement that critical theory in the United States is more social action oriented is true.

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7.

Sociologists believe that we never directly experience the world, we only encounter it through our perspectives.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

This statement aligns with the perspective of sociologists who argue that our experiences of the world are always mediated through our subjective perspectives. They believe that our understanding of the world is shaped by social factors such as culture, language, and socialization. Therefore, we can never have a completely objective or direct experience of the world, as our perspectives always influence how we perceive and interpret it.

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8.

Credentialing, in a bureaucratic society, leads to an overemphasis on education and is why we typically listen to experts rather than elders.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

The explanation for the given correct answer is that credentialing in a bureaucratic society often places a high value on formal education and qualifications. This can lead to an overemphasis on the expertise and opinions of those who possess these credentials, such as experts. As a result, the knowledge and wisdom of elders may be undervalued or overlooked in favor of the perceived expertise of educated individuals. Therefore, it is true that credentialing can contribute to a tendency to listen to experts rather than elders.

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9.

For Mead, meaning is emergent, pragmatically arising out of different interactions.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Mead believed that meaning is not fixed or predetermined, but rather emerges through social interactions and practical experiences. According to him, meaning is not inherent in objects or symbols, but rather arises out of the ongoing interactions between individuals. This concept of emergent meaning suggests that it is context-dependent and constantly evolving, shaped by the social and cultural environment. Therefore, the statement "For Mead, meaning is emergent, pragmatically arising out of different interactions" is true.

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10.

The central question or concern for critical theorists is how to realize the ideals of modernity and the enlightenment.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Critical theorists are indeed concerned with how to achieve the ideals of modernity and the enlightenment. They analyze and critique social, political, and economic structures to understand the barriers that prevent the realization of these ideals. By examining power dynamics, inequality, and oppression, critical theorists aim to bring about social change and create a more just and equitable society. Therefore, the statement is true.

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11.

Mead believes that the mind evolves as the social process or he social interaction comes to live inside an individual.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Mead's belief that the mind evolves through social interaction implies that individuals develop their thoughts and understanding through their interactions with others. This suggests that our mental processes are shaped by the social environment we are exposed to, and our understanding of the world is influenced by the shared meanings and symbols within a society. Therefore, the statement "Mead believes that the mind evolves as the social process or social interaction comes to live inside an individual" is consistent with Mead's theory.

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12.

Overstimulation and overpopulation lead to a desire to stand out and be noticed.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Overstimulation and overpopulation can create a sense of anonymity and insignificance among individuals. In such circumstances, people may develop a strong desire to stand out and be noticed as a way to validate their existence and gain recognition. This can manifest in various ways, such as seeking attention through achievements, appearance, or behavior. Therefore, it is plausible to say that overstimulation and overpopulation can indeed lead to a desire to stand out and be noticed.

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1
13.

Urbanization started as a result of:
- The Civil War
- World War I
- World War II
- The Industrial Revolution
Correct Answer

A. The Industrial Revolution

Explanation

Urbanization started as a result of the Industrial Revolution. During this period, there was a significant shift from an agrarian society to an industrial one. The invention of new machinery and the establishment of factories led to increased job opportunities in urban areas. As people moved from rural areas to cities in search of employment, urbanization began. The Industrial Revolution also brought advancements in transportation and communication, further contributing to the growth of cities.

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14.

Dahrendorf believes that society's culture reflects the interests of the elite.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Dahrendorf, a sociologist, argues that society's culture is shaped by the interests of the elite. This means that the dominant class or group in society has the power to influence and shape the cultural values, norms, and beliefs of the entire society. According to Dahrendorf, the elite use their cultural influence to maintain their power and privileges, while also ensuring that their interests are protected and promoted. Therefore, the statement "Dahrendorf believes that society's culture reflects the interests of the elite" is true based on his sociological perspective.

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15.

Assumptions are considered to be the basis of thinking and theorizing.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Assumptions are indeed considered to be the basis of thinking and theorizing. When we make assumptions, we are essentially making educated guesses or hypotheses about a certain situation or concept. These assumptions form the foundation on which we build our thoughts and theories. They guide our reasoning and help us make sense of the world around us. Without assumptions, it would be difficult to form any meaningful ideas or theories. Therefore, it is true that assumptions are considered to be the basis of thinking and theorizing.

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16.

Whereas Coser was concerned with conflict resulting from class, status, and party, Dahrendorf was centrally concerned with one type of conflict, that of class conflict.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Dahrendorf's central concern was class conflict, while Coser focused on conflict resulting from class, status, and party. Therefore, the statement is true.

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17.

Relative deprivation is the sense of being underprivileged.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Relative deprivation refers to the perception or feeling of being disadvantaged or having less than others in comparison. It is a subjective assessment of one's own circumstances in relation to others. Therefore, it can be understood as the sense of being underprivileged. The statement is true because relative deprivation does indeed involve feeling disadvantaged or less privileged than others.

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18.

According to Mead, the mind is a behavior involving several behavioral elements such as the use of symbols to denote objects.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

According to Mead, the mind is considered a behavior because it involves various behavioral elements, such as the use of symbols to represent objects. This implies that our thoughts and mental processes are not isolated from our actions and behaviors, but rather intertwined with them. Mead's perspective suggests that our minds are shaped and influenced by our interactions with others and the use of symbols in communication. Therefore, the statement "True" is a correct explanation of Mead's view on the mind.

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19.

Critical theorists believed that ideology was even more insidious than Marx thought.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Critical theorists believed that ideology was even more insidious than Marx thought because they believed that it not only shaped people's beliefs and values, but also influenced their thoughts, behaviors, and social structures in a more covert and pervasive manner. They argued that ideology was deeply embedded in all aspects of society, including education, media, and culture, and served to maintain and perpetuate existing power structures and inequalities. Therefore, they believed that ideology had a greater impact on individuals and society than Marx initially recognized.

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20.

Which theorist is most closely linked to Positivism?
- George Herbert Mead
- August Comte
- Karl Marx
- Harriet Martineau
Correct Answer

A. August Comte

Explanation

August Comte is most closely linked to Positivism. He is considered the founder of the positivist school of thought, which emphasizes the use of scientific methods to study society. Comte believed that society could be understood and improved through the application of scientific principles, and he emphasized the importance of empirical evidence and observation in social research. His work laid the foundation for the development of sociology as a scientific discipline.

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21.

For Dahrendorf, as groups become better organized, they become less likely to engage in intense and violent conflict.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Dahrendorf believes that as groups become more organized, they are able to resolve conflicts and address their grievances through peaceful means rather than resorting to intense and violent conflict. This is because organized groups have established structures and mechanisms for communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution, which provide them with the tools to address their differences peacefully. Therefore, it is likely that as groups become better organized, the likelihood of intense and violent conflict decreases.

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22.

The colonialization of the lifeworld by political and economic systems is possible, in part, due to welfare programs such as social security.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Welfare programs like social security can contribute to the colonization of the lifeworld by political and economic systems. This is because such programs can create a dependency on the state and the market, leading to a loss of autonomy and independence for individuals. The state and market can then exert control and influence over various aspects of people's lives, furthering their colonization.

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23.

Critical theorists charge individuals to look at things taken for granted.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Critical theorists encourage individuals to critically examine and question things that are often accepted without thought or scrutiny. They challenge individuals to not simply accept societal norms, beliefs, and practices, but to critically analyze and question them in order to gain a deeper understanding and potentially bring about social change. This encourages individuals to be more aware and engaged in their surroundings, rather than passively accepting the status quo.

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24.

Auguste Comte, the father of modern sociology, believed that there were natural laws ordering society and human interaction that could be discovered and adhered to in order to create a more just and peaceful society.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Auguste Comte, known as the father of modern sociology, believed that society and human interaction were governed by natural laws. He argued that by understanding and adhering to these laws, it was possible to create a more just and peaceful society. This suggests that the statement "Auguste Comte believed that there were natural laws ordering society and human interaction that could be discovered and adhered to in order to create a more just and peaceful society" is true.

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25.

Marx believes that false consciousness is reinforced and capitalism continues to thrive because ideologies of the elite prevent bipolarization instead pitting us against one another along meaningless lines of race, class, gender, and sexual orientation.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Marx argues that false consciousness is perpetuated by the ruling class through the promotion of divisive ideologies based on race, class, gender, and sexual orientation. These ideologies distract individuals from recognizing their shared class interests and instead pit them against each other. By maintaining this division, capitalism is able to thrive as the ruling class maintains control and prevents the formation of a united working class. Therefore, the statement is true.

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26.

Simmel believed that the purpose and goal of knowledge was to uncover the a priori conditions of society.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Simmel believed that the purpose and goal of knowledge was to uncover the a priori conditions of society. This means that he believed that knowledge should aim to reveal the fundamental and underlying principles that shape and determine social interactions and structures. By understanding these a priori conditions, one can gain a deeper understanding of society and how it operates. Therefore, the statement "Simmel believed that the purpose and goal of knowledge was to uncover the a priori conditions of society" is true.

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27.

Critical theorists within the United States work toward eliminating the invisibility of oppression, particularly toward women and minorities.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

This statement is true because critical theorists in the United States aim to bring attention to and challenge the systems of oppression that marginalize women and minorities. They seek to make these forms of oppression visible and address them in order to create a more equitable society. By acknowledging and confronting these issues, critical theorists work towards dismantling the structures that perpetuate inequality and discrimination.

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28.

Durkheim assumed human beings are innately selfish, driven by insatiable desires, and that we have to be reminded that we also like to be social.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Durkheim's assumption that human beings are innately selfish and driven by insatiable desires suggests that our natural inclination is towards individualism rather than social behavior. However, he also believed that we have a need for social interaction and that society plays a crucial role in regulating our behavior and reminding us of our social nature. Therefore, the statement that Durkheim assumed human beings are innately selfish and need to be reminded of their social nature is true.

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29.

Overproduction leads to social change and a collapse in capitalism through class struggle.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Overproduction refers to a situation where there is an excessive supply of goods or services in relation to the demand. This can lead to various social changes and ultimately result in a collapse of capitalism through class struggle. When there is overproduction, businesses may face difficulties in selling their excess products, leading to layoffs, reduced wages, and increased inequality. This can create tension and conflict between different social classes, as the working class fights for better conditions and the redistribution of wealth. Ultimately, these social tensions can contribute to the downfall of capitalism as it fails to address the needs and demands of the majority.

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30.

The premodern person existed within a collective environment.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

The premodern person existed within a collective environment because in premodern societies, individuals were heavily influenced by their community and social group. They relied on their community for survival, shared values, and decision-making. Individualism was not as prominent as it is in modern societies, and people's identities and actions were often shaped by their roles within the collective. This collective environment fostered a sense of belonging and interdependence among individuals.

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31.

Concepts are:
- Used to provide examples
- Tricky to define
- Parts of theory
- Concepts consist of all of the above
Correct Answer

A. Concepts consist of all of the above

Explanation

Concepts consist of all of the above because they are used to provide examples, they are tricky to define, and they are parts of theory. Concepts are abstract ideas or general notions that represent a category or class of objects, events, or behaviors. They are used to provide examples by illustrating specific instances or cases that fall under a particular concept. However, concepts can be tricky to define because they often involve complex or abstract ideas that may vary in interpretation. Additionally, concepts are essential parts of theory as they form the building blocks of understanding and organizing knowledge in a particular field or subject.

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32.

Social facts cannot cause other social facts
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

This statement is false because social facts can indeed cause other social facts. Social facts refer to the shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices that exist within a society. These social facts can influence and shape the behavior, attitudes, and actions of individuals and groups, thereby causing changes in the social fabric. For example, the introduction of new laws or policies can lead to changes in social behavior and practices. Additionally, social movements and cultural shifts can also cause changes in social facts. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that social facts cannot cause other social facts.

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33.

The development of the self is dependent on what?
- Pragmatism
- Natural signs
- Role-taking
- Emergence
Correct Answer

A. Role-taking

Explanation

Role-taking refers to the ability to take on the perspective of others and understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This process is crucial for the development of the self because it allows individuals to differentiate themselves from others and develop a sense of identity. Through role-taking, individuals are able to understand how they are perceived by others and how their actions impact those around them. This understanding is essential for the formation of a coherent and stable sense of self. Therefore, the development of the self is dependent on role-taking.

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34.

The self is static and unchanging.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

The statement suggests that the self is not static and unchanging. This implies that the self is dynamic and subject to change over time. Various factors such as experiences, personal growth, and external influences can shape and transform the self. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

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35.

Mead believes that human beings are a blank slate ("tabula rasa").
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Mead believes that human beings are a blank slate or "tabula rasa," meaning that they are born without any inherent traits or characteristics. According to Mead, individuals develop their identities and personalities through socialization and interaction with others. This perspective suggests that human behavior is not predetermined by biology or genetics, but rather shaped by social and cultural factors. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

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36.

Postmodernism arose from which of the following fundamental changes:
- Compression of time and space
- Spread of Markets
- The commodification of everything and the voiding of culture
- All of the above are changes that led to postmodernity
Correct Answer

A. All of the above are changes that led to postmodernity

Explanation

Postmodernism emerged as a response to various fundamental changes in society, including the compression of time and space, the spread of markets, and the commodification of everything, which resulted in the voiding of culture. These changes collectively led to the emergence of postmodernity, where traditional notions of time, space, and culture were challenged and deconstructed. The interconnectedness of these changes contributed to the development of postmodernism as a philosophical and cultural movement.

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37.

Pre-modern society was conceptualized as individual, or micro-level, interactions and it wasn't until the scientific stage that society was thought of as a structural entity (i.e. as a state or nation).
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

The statement suggests that in pre-modern society, interactions were viewed at an individual level, while in the scientific stage, society was seen as a structural entity such as a state or nation. This implies that the understanding of society evolved over time, with a shift towards recognizing the larger structures and systems that shape social interactions. Therefore, the answer "True" indicates that the statement accurately reflects the conceptualization of society in different stages.

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38.

Which of the following is considered a social object?
- A book
- A hammer
- A piece of string
- All of the above
Correct Answer

A. All of the above

Explanation

All of the options mentioned (a book, a hammer, and a piece of string) can be considered social objects. A social object is something that can stimulate social interactions and conversations among people. A book can be discussed, recommended, and shared among individuals, leading to social engagement. Similarly, a hammer or a piece of string can be used in collaborative activities or shared among people, fostering social connections. Therefore, all of these options can be categorized as social objects.

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39.

The increase in the division of labor is due to:
- The need to make products more quickly for distribution among an ever denser population
- The need to control a larger workforce
- Worker innovation leading to more specialized positions for job security
- All of the above increased the division of labor.
Correct Answer

A. All of the above increased the division of labor.

Explanation

The increase in the division of labor is a result of multiple factors. Firstly, the need to make products more quickly for distribution among an ever denser population has led to a more specialized division of labor, where different individuals focus on specific tasks to increase efficiency. Additionally, the need to control a larger workforce has also contributed to the division of labor, as it allows for better management and coordination of tasks. Lastly, worker innovation has played a role in creating more specialized positions for job security, further increasing the division of labor. Therefore, all of these factors have collectively contributed to the increase in the division of labor.

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1
40.

The more variation a culture has, the more objective the culture.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

The statement suggests that the more diversity or variation a culture has, the more objective it becomes. This could be because a diverse culture is exposed to different perspectives, ideas, and beliefs, which can lead to a more comprehensive and unbiased understanding of the world. By embracing different viewpoints, a culture can strive for objectivity and avoid biases that may arise from a homogenous or narrow-minded perspective. Therefore, the statement is true in suggesting that cultural variation can contribute to objectivity.

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41.

A consequence of organized capitalism is that the state faces crises of legitimation and rationality.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Organized capitalism refers to a system in which the government and large corporations work together to regulate and control the economy. In this system, the state's legitimacy and rationality can be questioned or challenged due to the close relationship between the government and big businesses. The state may face crises of legitimation, meaning that its authority and power may be questioned by the public, and crises of rationality, meaning that its decision-making processes may be seen as biased or influenced by corporate interests. Therefore, it can be concluded that the statement "A consequence of organized capitalism is that the state faces crises of legitimation and rationality" is true.

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42.

What caused the shift from mechanical to organic solidarity?
- Competition
- The enlightenment
- Division of labor
- Class consciousness
Correct Answer

A. Division of labor

Explanation

The shift from mechanical to organic solidarity was caused by the division of labor. In mechanical solidarity, individuals are bound together by shared beliefs and values, while in organic solidarity, individuals are interdependent due to their specialized roles and tasks. The division of labor leads to a more complex and interconnected society, where individuals rely on each other for their specific skills and contributions. This shift is a result of the increased specialization and differentiation of roles in modern societies, leading to a greater need for cooperation and interdependence among individuals.

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43.

Unlike Marx, Weber believed that society only existed subjectively, through an interpretation of culture.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Weber believed that society exists subjectively, meaning that it is not an objective reality but rather a product of individuals' interpretations and understanding of culture. This is in contrast to Marx, who viewed society as an objective entity shaped by material conditions and class struggle. Therefore, the statement that Weber believed society only existed subjectively is true.

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44.

The geographic territory is the fundamental element over which conflict occurs.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

The explanation for the given correct answer is that geographic territory often serves as a valuable and limited resource that different groups or nations may compete for. This competition can lead to conflicts, as each party seeks to control or claim the territory for its own interests. Additionally, territorial disputes have historically been a common cause of conflicts and wars throughout history. Therefore, it can be concluded that the geographic territory is indeed a fundamental element over which conflict occurs.

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45.

What is George Herbert Mead's assumption about human nature?
- We are born a blank slate
- We use symbols to react
- There are natural laws ordering society
- A and B
Correct Answer

A. A and B

Explanation

George Herbert Mead's assumption about human nature is that we are born a blank slate and that we use symbols to react. This means that Mead believed that individuals are not born with innate knowledge or characteristics, but rather acquire them through social interaction and the use of symbols. He emphasized the role of language and communication in shaping our understanding of the world and our interactions with others. Additionally, Mead believed that society is not governed by natural laws, but rather constructed through social interactions and shared meanings.

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46.

Which of the following is NOT one of the types of authority identified by Weber?
- Parental Authority
- Rational-Legal Authority
- Charismatic Authority
- Traditional Authority
Correct Answer

A. Parental Authority

Explanation

Weber's types of authority are rational-legal authority, charismatic authority, and traditional authority. Parental authority is not one of the types identified by Weber.

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47.

According to Comte, what was the purpose of Sociology? What were we to study?
- Reorganizing society after the French Revolution destroyed democracy
- Study the progress of new democracy
- Observe society's laws and rights through Empiricism
- All of the above
Correct Answer

A. All of the above

Explanation

The purpose of Sociology, according to Comte, was to study and observe various aspects of society. This included reorganizing society after the French Revolution, studying the progress of new democracy, and observing society's laws and rights through Empiricism. All of these aspects were considered important in understanding and analyzing society, making "All of the above" the correct answer.

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48.

One consequence of rational group membership is increased boredom or lack of concern.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Rational group membership often leads to increased boredom or lack of concern because when individuals join a group based on rational decision-making, they may prioritize personal interests and benefits over the collective goals and values of the group. This self-centered approach can result in a lack of engagement or concern for the group's activities, leading to boredom or disinterest. Additionally, rational group membership may involve individuals choosing groups that align with their existing beliefs and values, which can limit exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences, further contributing to boredom or lack of concern.

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49.

What reason is given by Weber for society's inability to escape bureaucracy?
- Bureaucracies are most efficient at organizing large populations
- Bureaucracy operates without values or morals and can be used for any purpose.
- Bureaucracies are based on expert knowledge and are capable of promoting recruitment
- All of the above are reasons why bureaucracy is inescapable
Correct Answer

A. All of the above are reasons why bureaucracy is inescapable

Explanation

Weber argues that all of the given reasons contribute to society's inability to escape bureaucracy. Bureaucracies are efficient at organizing large populations, as they provide structure and clear roles for individuals. Additionally, bureaucracy operates without values or morals, making it adaptable to any purpose, which can be both beneficial and detrimental. Lastly, bureaucracies are based on expert knowledge, allowing them to effectively recruit and promote individuals. These factors combined make bureaucracy difficult to escape, according to Weber.

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Sociological Theory Final Exam Practice

In order to realize a civil society, we must be open to the idea of equal rights for all.

Quiz Preview

Which of the following is NOT one of the three theoretical frameworks within the field of sociology?

One aspect of the "spirit" of capitalism is that making money is no longer a means to an end but rather is the end (the goal) of rational capitalism.

The modern world is one where we are ultimately concerned with developing an individual self, a self that stands out and is differentiated from others.

Conflicts are less likely to be violent if there appears to be legitimate means to resolving.

Critical theory in the United States is more of a social action oriented approach than its European or Postmodern counterparts.

Sociologists believe that we never directly experience the world, we only encounter it through our perspectives.

Credentialing, in a bureaucratic society, leads to an overemphasis on education and is why we typically listen to experts rather than elders.

For Mead, meaning is emergent, pragmatically arising out of different interactions.

The central question or concern for critical theorists is how to realize the ideals of modernity and the enlightenment.

Mead believes that the mind evolves as the social process or he social interaction comes to live inside an individual.

Overstimulation and overpopulation lead to a desire to stand out and be noticed.

Urbanization started as a result of:

Dahrendorf believes that society's culture reflects the interests of the elite.

Assumptions are considered to be the basis of thinking and theorizing.

Whereas Coser was concerned with conflict resulting from class, status, and party, Dahrendorf was centrally concerned with one type of conflict, that of class conflict.

Relative deprivation is the sense of being underprivileged.

According to Mead, the mind is a behavior involving several behavioral elements such as the use of symbols to denote objects.

Critical theorists believed that ideology was even more insidious than Marx thought.

Which theorist is most closely linked to Positivism?

For Dahrendorf, as groups become better organized, they become less likely to engage in intense and violent conflict.

The colonialization of the lifeworld by political and economic systems is possible, in part, due to welfare programs such as social security.

Critical theorists charge individuals to look at things taken for granted.

Auguste Comte, the father of modern sociology, believed that there were natural laws ordering society and human interaction that could be discovered and adhered to in order to create a more just and peaceful society.

Marx believes that false consciousness is reinforced and capitalism continues to thrive because ideologies of the elite prevent bipolarization instead pitting us against one another along meaningless lines of race, class, gender, and sexual orientation.

Simmel believed that the purpose and goal of knowledge was to uncover the a priori conditions of society.

Critical theorists within the United States work toward eliminating the invisibility of oppression, particularly toward women and minorities.

Durkheim assumed human beings are innately selfish, driven by insatiable desires, and that we have to be reminded that we also like to be social.

Overproduction leads to social change and a collapse in capitalism through class struggle.

The premodern person existed within a collective environment.

Concepts are:

Social facts cannot cause other social facts

The development of the self is dependent on what?

The self is static and unchanging.

Mead believes that human beings are a blank slate ("tabula rasa").

Postmodernism arose from which of the following fundamental changes:

Pre-modern society was conceptualized as individual, or micro-level, interactions and it wasn't until the scientific stage that society was thought of as a structural entity (i.e. as a state or nation).

Which of the following is considered a social object?

The increase in the division of labor is due to:

The more variation a culture has, the more objective the culture.

A consequence of organized capitalism is that the state faces crises of legitimation and rationality.

What caused the shift from mechanical to organic solidarity?

Unlike Marx, Weber believed that society only existed subjectively, through an interpretation of culture.

The geographic territory is the fundamental element over which conflict occurs.

What is George Herbert Mead's assumption about human nature?

Which of the following is NOT one of the types of authority identified by Weber?

According to Comte, what was the purpose of Sociology? What were we to study?

One consequence of rational group membership is increased boredom or lack of concern.

What reason is given by Weber for society's inability to escape bureaucracy?