1. According to the ideas of Karl Marx, what is the primary cause of social change?
A. Class conflict Correct
B. Economic progress
C. Industrial progress
D. Religious conflict
Explanation
Karl Marx, a foundational sociologist and economist, posited that class conflict is the engine of historical and social change. He believed that tensions between different social classes, particularly the bourgeoisie (owners) and the proletariat (workers), arise from unequal distribution of resources and power, leading to revolutions and societal transformations. This contrasts with other factors like economic or industrial progress, which Marx saw as outcomes rather than primary causes, and religious conflict, which he viewed as a symptom of deeper class issues.
2. One of the original founders of sociology, Herbert Spencer, coined the term 'survival of the fittest.' What, specifically, was Spencer referencing when he used this term?
A. That helping the poor was wrong
B. That industries should only employ young, able-bodied men
C. That helping a non-Christian was immoral
D. That strong nations should have the most say in global affairs Correct
Explanation
Herbert Spencer applied the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from Darwinian evolution to social contexts, arguing that stronger societies or nations would naturally dominate weaker ones in the global arena. This idea was part of his social Darwinism, which justified imperialism and competition among nations. It was not specifically about refusing aid to the poor, employment practices, or religious morality, though it influenced laissez-faire policies against social welfare.
3. Which sociological perspective views society as a system of interrelated parts?
A. Conflict
B. Functional analysis Correct
C. Microsociology
D. Symbolic interactionism
Explanation
Functional analysis, also known as structural functionalism, conceptualizes society as a complex system where various institutions and structures work interdependently to promote stability and solidarity. Theorists like Emile Durkheim emphasized how each part, such as family or education, contributes to the overall functioning of society, much like organs in a body. This differs from conflict theory, which focuses on power struggles, microsociology on small-scale interactions, and symbolic interactionism on meanings and symbols.
4. Which sociological perspective examines the meanings people give things and how those meanings influence our communication with one another?
A. Conflict
B. Cultural relativism
C. Functional analysis
D. Symbolic interactionism Correct
Explanation
Symbolic interactionism, developed by thinkers like George Herbert Mead and Herbert Blumer, centers on how individuals interpret symbols and meanings in their daily interactions, shaping behavior and social reality. It posits that society is constructed through these subjective meanings, influencing communication and relationships. Unlike conflict theory (power inequalities), cultural relativism (understanding cultures on their terms), or functional analysis (societal stability), it emphasizes micro-level processes of meaning-making.
5. In which research method does the researcher participate with the subjects in their own setting while observing what is happening in that setting?
A. Case study
B. Experiment
C. Field research Correct
D. Survey
Explanation
Field research, or participant observation, involves immersing oneself in the natural environment of the subjects to observe and participate in their activities, providing in-depth insights into social behaviors. This method, used by anthropologists and sociologists like William Foote Whyte in 'Street Corner Society,' allows for understanding context and nuances that other methods miss. It differs from case studies (intensive analysis of one instance), experiments (controlled variables), and surveys (questionnaires).