Sociology Midterm Quiz Questions

Subcultures are smaller subgroups within a larger dominant society that share some of the dominant cultural values, but also have their own unique material and non-material or symbolic culture. These subcultures can be defined as distinct social groups that exist within a broader society and have their own norms, values, beliefs, and practices that differentiate them from the dominant culture. They often form around shared interests, lifestyles, or identities, and can include groups such as punks, goths, gamers, or hip-hop enthusiasts. Subcultures provide individuals with a sense of belonging and identity within a larger society.

Sociological imagination, as defined by C. Wright Mills, is the concept that allows us to understand and analyze the connections between history, biography, and society. It enables individuals to see how personal experiences are influenced by larger social forces and structures. By using sociological imagination, we can examine and understand the intersection of personal troubles and public issues, and how they are shaped by societal factors.

Marx believed that the conflict between a small group of capitalists who owned the means of production and a large group of workers who did not would lead to the division of society. He referred to this large group of workers as the "proletariat." The term "proletariat" is used to describe the working class who sell their labor in order to survive, and according to Marx, they would eventually rise up against the capitalists in a revolution to establish a classless society.

Marx argued that workers are alienated from the process of production because they do not have control over their labor or the products they create. They are also alienated from other people because the capitalist system pits workers against each other in competition for jobs and resources. Additionally, workers are alienated from themselves because their labor is commodified and they are reduced to mere instruments of production. Therefore, the correct answer is that workers are alienated from the process of production, other people, and themselves.

Qualitative research is a type of research that describes people's behavior in rich detail and focuses on the meanings people give to their actions. It involves gathering data through methods such as interviews, observations, and analysis of texts and documents. This type of research aims to understand the subjective experiences and perspectives of individuals, providing a deeper understanding of human behavior.

Nonmaterial or symbolic culture refers to the intangible aspects of culture such as values, beliefs, norms, and behaviors. This category encompasses the ideas, attitudes, and customs that shape a society and guide individual behavior. It includes things like language, religion, social norms, and moral values. This is in contrast to material culture, which refers to the tangible artifacts and physical objects that are created and used by a society. Subculture and counterculture are specific types of nonmaterial or symbolic culture that exist within a larger culture.

Concepts such as I, me, and generalized other are part of George Herbert Mead's work. Mead was a sociologist and philosopher who contributed significantly to the development of symbolic interactionism. He proposed that the self is formed through social interaction and that individuals develop a sense of self through their interactions with others. The concepts of I, me, and generalized other are central to his theory, explaining how individuals perceive themselves and others in social situations.

Arlie Hoscschild argued that many workers seek refuge from the demands and stresses of their work life in the comfort and familiarity of their homes. This suggests that for these individuals, their home serves as a sanctuary or a place of escape from the pressures of the workplace.

In-groups are the most important kinds of socialization because they are the groups in which individuals feel a sense of belonging and identity. In these groups, individuals interact closely with each other, share common values, beliefs, and norms, and develop strong emotional bonds. The socialization that occurs within in-groups is crucial for shaping an individual's behavior, attitudes, and social identity. It is within these groups that individuals learn social roles, acquire social skills, and develop a sense of self. Therefore, in-groups play a significant role in the socialization process.

The correct answer is "the third that rejoices". This phrase suggests that when a third member is introduced into a dyad (a group of two), they can take advantage of the conflict or competition between the other two members and benefit from it. By "rejoicing" in the discord between the other two, the third member can gain power and manipulate the situation to their advantage. This role involves playing one member against the other for their own benefit.