Nature and Task of Theory

Model MCQ's Sociological Theories

1. According to Karl Marx, the base of a society consists of:

(A) Cultural institutions

(B) The economic foundation, including the means and relations of production

(D) The legal system

(B) The economic foundation, including the means and relations of production

Explanation: Marx argued that the base of a society comprises its economic foundation, which includes the means of production (tools, land, resources) and the relations of production (how people interact in the process of producing goods).

2. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of sociological theory?

(A) It is empirically testable

(B) It is universally applicable

(D) It is based on assumptions about human behavior

(B) It is universally applicable

Explanation: Sociological theories may not be universally applicable as they are often based on cultural, historical, and social contexts that vary across societies.

3. Which of the following sociological theories focuses on the conflict between different social classes?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, particularly as developed by Karl Marx, focuses on the struggle between different social classes, particularly the bourgeoisie (capitalists) and the proletariat (working class).

4. The concept of "anomie" in sociological theory is most closely associated with:

(A) Émile Durkheim

(B) Max Weber

(D) Herbert Spencer

(A) Émile Durkheim

Explanation: Émile Durkheim introduced the concept of "anomie," referring to a breakdown of social norms or a condition where society’s values are unclear or in conflict.

5. Which of the following is a type of sociological theory that focuses on the role of symbols and interactions in everyday life?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Postmodernism

(B) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism, developed by George Herbert Mead and others, focuses on how individuals use symbols, like language and gestures, to interact with each other in daily life.

6. What is the main focus of structural functionalism in sociology?

(A) How society maintains stability and social order

(B) The power dynamics between different groups

(D) How individuals create meaning in social interactions

(A) How society maintains stability and social order

Explanation: Structural functionalism, associated with sociologists like Talcott Parsons, focuses on how different elements of society work together to maintain stability and order.

7. Which sociological theory emphasizes the role of culture in shaping human behavior?

(A) Social constructivism

(B) Functionalism

(D) Cultural theory

Explanation: Cultural theory emphasizes how cultural values, norms, and symbols shape human behavior, perceptions, and interactions in society.

8. The theory that argues that social institutions exist to meet the needs of society and maintain stability is:

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Structural functionalism

(D) Postmodernism

(B) Structural functionalism

Explanation: Structural functionalism posits that social institutions and structures exist to meet society's needs and maintain social stability.

9. Which of the following theories emphasizes the influence of economic power and class conflict in society?

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Structural functionalism

(D) Symbolic interactionism

(A) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, particularly through Marxist analysis, emphasizes the role of economic power and class conflict as key drivers of social inequality and change.

10. Which sociologist is most closely associated with the development of symbolic interactionism?

(A) Max Weber

(B) Émile Durkheim

(D) Karl Marx

Explanation: George Herbert Mead is considered a key figure in the development of symbolic interactionism, which focuses on the importance of symbols and social interactions in the creation of meaning.

11. Which of the following theories is most associated with the idea that societies evolve from simple to complex forms?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Evolutionary theory

(D) Conflict theory

(B) Evolutionary theory

Explanation: Evolutionary theory, particularly associated with Herbert Spencer, posits that societies evolve from simple to more complex structures over time.

12. What does the "double consciousness" theory by W.E.B. Du Bois describe?

(A) The split between personal identity and societal expectations

(B) The duality of social structures

(D) The role of technology in modern society

Explanation: W.E.B. Du Bois's theory of "double consciousness" refers to the experience of African Americans being torn between their African heritage and their American identity.

13. What is the primary focus of feminist theory in sociology?

(A) The importance of gender in understanding societal roles

(B) The influence of economic classes in shaping society

(D) The relationship between social behavior and individual psychology

(A) The importance of gender in understanding societal roles

Explanation: Feminist theory emphasizes the role of gender in shaping societal structures, roles, and relationships, often focusing on women's experiences and inequalities.

14. Which theory views society as a system of interrelated parts that work together to maintain stability?

(A) Social exchange theory

(B) Structural functionalism

(D) Social constructionism

(B) Structural functionalism

Explanation: Structural functionalism views society as composed of various parts (e.g., institutions, structures) that work together to maintain societal stability and order.

15. Which of the following sociologists is known for his work on the "iron cage" of bureaucracy?

(A) Max Weber

(B) Karl Marx

(D) Herbert Spencer

(A) Max Weber

Explanation: Max Weber is known for the concept of the "iron cage," referring to the increasing rationalization of society through bureaucratic structures, which can limit individual freedom and creativity.

16. Which theory suggests that social reality is constructed through the meanings and symbols that individuals create in social interactions?

(A) Symbolic interactionism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Social constructivism

(A) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism focuses on how individuals create meaning through their interactions with others and how those meanings shape society.

17. What does the term "social solidarity" refer to in Durkheim's theory?

(A) The connections between individuals in a society

(B) The process of cultural assimilation

(D) The role of conflict in society

(A) The connections between individuals in a society

Explanation: Émile Durkheim introduced the concept of "social solidarity," which refers to the bonds that hold individuals together in a society, including mechanical and organic solidarity.

18. In which sociological theory are norms, values, and roles considered essential for maintaining the social order?

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Structural functionalism

(D) Symbolic interactionism

(B) Structural functionalism

Explanation: Structural functionalism posits that norms, values, and roles are crucial for maintaining the stability and functioning of society.

19. Which sociologist is most closely associated with the theory of "the protestant ethic and the spirit of capitalism"?

(A) Max Weber

(B) Karl Marx

(D) Auguste Comte

(A) Max Weber

Explanation: Max Weber's "The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism" explores how Protestant values, particularly those associated with hard work and frugality, helped promote the development of capitalism.

20. According to which theory does social change result from the struggle between different groups with conflicting interests?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Postmodernism

(B) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, especially through the work of Karl Marx, argues that social change results from the tensions and struggles between groups with conflicting interests, particularly between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat.

21. According to Karl Marx, the ruling class controls which aspect of society?

(A) Political system

(B) Economic system

(D) Education system

Explanation: Marx argued that the ruling class controls the dominant ideology and culture, which shapes how people think about and interpret social relations, often justifying their power and control.

22. Which of the following is a limitation of symbolic interactionism?

(A) It does not consider larger social structures

(B) It ignores the role of individual agency

(D) It focuses too much on economic factors

(A) It does not consider larger social structures

Explanation: One limitation of symbolic interactionism is that it tends to focus on small-scale interactions and does not always account for larger social structures and systems that shape those interactions.

23. What is the focus of postmodernist sociological theories?

(A) The analysis of class struggles

(B) The rejection of grand narratives and emphasis on fragmented, multiple realities

(D) The understanding of how societies evolve

(B) The rejection of grand narratives and emphasis on fragmented, multiple realities

Explanation: Postmodernism challenges grand, overarching narratives and instead emphasizes that reality is fragmented, subjective, and constructed through language and culture.

24. Which theory emphasizes the importance of socialization in shaping an individual’s behavior?

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Social learning theory

(D) Symbolic interactionism

(B) Social learning theory

Explanation: Social learning theory emphasizes that people learn behaviors, values, and norms through social interaction and imitation, which helps shape their individual behavior.

25. Which sociological theory argues that power and inequality are central to social life and that these elements are inherent in all social relationships?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Feminist theory

(D) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Conflict theory, as proposed by Karl Marx and later expanded by others, argues that power and inequality are fundamental to understanding social life, with societal changes driven by the conflict between different groups.

26. What does the "conflict perspective" in sociology primarily focus on?

(A) How social structures maintain order

(B) The impact of shared norms and values on social behavior

(D) The role of symbols and language in social interaction

Explanation: The conflict perspective focuses on how inequalities and power imbalances shape social structures and relationships, with particular attention to how these conflicts drive social change.

27. Which of the following best describes the concept of "structuralism" in sociology?

(A) The belief that individual actions are shaped by social structures

(B) The study of social structures in isolation from individuals

(D) The emphasis on micro-level interactions over macro-level structures

(A) The belief that individual actions are shaped by social structures

Explanation: Structuralism emphasizes that individual behavior is shaped by overarching social structures and that understanding these structures is key to understanding societal functioning.

28. What is the focus of critical theory in sociology?

(A) Examining how social institutions contribute to social stability

(B) Challenging power structures and critiquing societal inequalities

(D) Studying the impact of culture on human behavior

(B) Challenging power structures and critiquing societal inequalities

Explanation: Critical theory focuses on critiquing and changing society by examining power structures, inequalities, and the ways in which they shape social relations and institutions.

29. Which of the following is NOT considered a limitation of functionalism?

(A) It overlooks social change

(B) It ignores the role of conflict in society

(D) It focuses too much on individual actions

Explanation: Functionalism generally focuses on societal structures and their roles in maintaining social order, rather than emphasizing individual actions, which is seen as a limitation in explaining individual behavior.

30. Which of the following theories explains social behavior based on the exchange of rewards and costs in relationships?

(A) Social exchange theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Conflict theory

(A) Social exchange theory

Explanation: Social exchange theory posits that social behavior is the result of an exchange process, where individuals seek to maximize rewards and minimize costs in their relationships.

31. Which of the following sociologists is associated with the concept of "social facts"?

(A) Max Weber

(B) Émile Durkheim

(D) Herbert Spencer

(B) Émile Durkheim

Explanation: Émile Durkheim introduced the concept of "social facts," referring to social forces or institutions that shape individual behavior and are external to the individual.

32. Which theory suggests that human behavior is a result of both individual actions and social structure?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Social exchange theory

Explanation: Interactionism emphasizes the importance of social interactions in shaping individual behavior while acknowledging the influence of broader social structures.

33. Which theory is concerned with how language and symbols shape social reality?

(A) Postmodernism

(B) Social constructivism

(D) Feminist theory

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism focuses on how language, symbols, and communication shape the ways individuals understand and interact with the world.

34. What is the primary focus of the "division of labor" concept in Durkheim's theory?

(A) The importance of economic relationships

(B) How labor is allocated to different social classes

(D) The breakdown of social norms in modern society

Explanation: Durkheim's concept of the "division of labor" emphasizes how specialized roles and tasks within society help maintain social cohesion and order.

35. In the context of sociological theories, what does "normative theory" focus on?

(A) How society actually functions

(B) How society should function according to certain values and norms

(D) The scientific observation of social behavior

(B) How society should function according to certain values and norms

Explanation: Normative theory focuses on what ought to be the case in society, prescribing how society should function based on values, ethics, and norms.

36. According to which sociological theory is the economy the most important factor in determining the nature of society?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, particularly Marxist analysis, argues that the economy and economic power relations play a central role in shaping the structure and nature of society.

37. Which theory argues that social institutions and norms help to stabilize society and prevent social disorder?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Feminist theory

(A) Structural functionalism

Explanation: Structural functionalism argues that social institutions (such as family, education, and religion) help maintain social order and stability, reducing the likelihood of social disorder.

38. Which of the following is a key concept in symbolic interactionism that focuses on the subjective meanings people attach to their social worlds?

(A) Social facts

(B) Anomie

(D) Social construction of reality

Explanation: The social construction of reality is a concept in symbolic interactionism that suggests people create their understanding of the world through social interactions and shared meanings.

39. Which sociological theory suggests that the primary cause of social change is the evolution of economic systems?

(A) Social exchange theory

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Evolutionary theory

(B) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, particularly through Marx's lens, argues that economic systems, particularly the means of production and class conflict, are central to understanding social change.

40. What is the central idea of postmodernism in sociological theory?

(A) The search for universal truths

(B) The rejection of absolute truths and an emphasis on subjective experiences

(D) The role of social institutions in maintaining order

(B) The rejection of absolute truths and an emphasis on subjective experiences

Explanation: Postmodernism challenges the idea of universal truths, instead focusing on the multiplicity of perspectives and the role of individual subjective experience in constructing reality.

41. Which of the following is an example of a macro-level sociological theory?

(A) Symbolic interactionism

(B) Social exchange theory

(D) Social learning theory

Explanation: Structural functionalism is a macro-level theory that focuses on the large-scale social structures and institutions and their role in maintaining societal stability.

42. According to Max Weber, the "Protestant Ethic" was significant because it contributed to:

(A) The rise of capitalism in Europe

(B) The development of democracy

(D) The social mobility of the working class

(A) The rise of capitalism in Europe

Explanation: Weber argued that Protestant values, particularly Calvinism, encouraged behaviors such as hard work and frugality, which contributed to the rise of capitalism in Europe.

43. Which of the following theories focuses on the idea that reality is socially constructed through communication and interaction?

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Social constructivism

(D) Structural functionalism

(B) Social constructivism

Explanation: Social constructivism emphasizes that knowledge and reality are constructed through social interactions, language, and communication between individuals.

44. In which type of theory is society viewed as a collection of individuals making decisions based on self-interest?

(A) Rational choice theory

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Symbolic interactionism

(A) Rational choice theory

Explanation: Rational choice theory views individuals as making decisions based on maximizing personal benefits and minimizing personal costs, often driven by self-interest.

45. Which sociological theory argues that inequalities in society arise due to competition for limited resources?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, particularly as developed by Marx, argues that inequalities in society arise due to competition for limited resources, such as wealth, power, and status.

46. What is the main criticism of structural functionalism?

(A) It overemphasizes the role of conflict

(B) It fails to explain social change

(D) It focuses too much on individual behavior

(B) It fails to explain social change

Explanation: A major criticism of structural functionalism is that it focuses too much on stability and social order and does not adequately address or explain social change.

47. The feminist theory primarily aims to:

(A) Promote gender equality and challenge patriarchy

(B) Maintain social order and stability

(D) Study the relationship between social institutions

(A) Promote gender equality and challenge patriarchy

Explanation: Feminist theory focuses on the analysis of gender inequalities in society, aiming to promote gender equality and challenge patriarchal structures.

48. Which theory emphasizes the subjective meanings that people attach to their actions?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Social exchange theory

(D) Conflict theory

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism emphasizes the subjective meanings and interpretations that people attach to their actions and social interactions.

49. Which of the following is a key concept in the theory of social constructionism?

(A) Social reality is constructed through human interaction

(B) Society is a product of economic structures

(D) Social structures are unchanging

(A) Social reality is constructed through human interaction

Explanation: Social constructionism posits that social reality is not inherent but is constructed through human interaction, communication, and shared understandings.

50. Which of the following theories focuses on the material and economic conditions of society?

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Feminist theory

(D) Postmodernism

(A) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, particularly Marxism, focuses on the role of material and economic conditions in shaping social structures and inequalities in society.

51. According to Max Weber, which of the following is a key feature of bureaucracy?

(A) Hierarchical structure and formal rules

(B) Informal communication channels

(D) Focus on individual autonomy

(A) Hierarchical structure and formal rules

Explanation: Max Weber identified that bureaucracies are characterized by a hierarchical structure, formal rules, and regulations, which are designed to ensure efficiency and predictability in organizations.

52. Which theory focuses on the roles that institutions play in the preservation of social order?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Social constructivism

(D) Symbolic interactionism

(A) Structural functionalism

Explanation: Structural functionalism emphasizes the roles of institutions and structures in maintaining social order, stability, and functioning in society.

53. According to the concept of "symbolic capital" by Pierre Bourdieu, which of the following is NOT an example of symbolic capital?

(A) Prestige

(B) Education

(D) Social connections

Explanation: Symbolic capital refers to non-economic resources such as prestige, education, or social connections that contribute to an individual's status and power in society. Wealth, on the other hand, is considered economic capital.

54. What does the "power-knowledge" relationship refer to in the context of Foucault's theory?

(A) The connection between knowledge and economic resources

(B) How power influences the production of knowledge

(D) The way knowledge is passed down through generations

(B) How power influences the production of knowledge

Explanation: Foucault's concept of "power-knowledge" highlights the idea that knowledge is not neutral but is shaped and influenced by power dynamics, and those in power often control what is considered "true" or "knowledgeable."

55. What is the primary critique of postmodernism in sociology?

(A) It overemphasizes social order

(B) It rejects the existence of social structures

(D) It ignores individual agency

Explanation: A primary critique of postmodernism is that it often disregards empirical data in favor of subjective interpretation, challenging objective truth and social scientific methods.

56. What does the term "anomie" refer to in the context of social theory?

(A) A breakdown of social norms

(B) The role of social institutions in shaping behavior

(D) The unequal distribution of resources

(A) A breakdown of social norms

Explanation: Anomie, a concept introduced by Durkheim, refers to a state of normlessness or confusion within society, where societal norms are unclear or no longer effective in regulating behavior.

57. Which sociologist is most associated with the concept of "the looking-glass self"?

(A) George Herbert Mead

(B) Charles Horton Cooley

(D) Max Weber

(B) Charles Horton Cooley

Explanation: The "looking-glass self" is a concept developed by Charles Horton Cooley, which suggests that individuals form their self-concept based on how others perceive and respond to them.

58. Which sociological perspective focuses on the role of language and symbols in social interactions?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Social exchange theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism focuses on how people use symbols, such as language and gestures, to create meaning and navigate social interactions.

59. Which of the following best describes the concept of "social stratification"?

(A) The unequal distribution of resources and rewards in society

(B) The process of social integration and cohesion

(D) The division of labor in society

(A) The unequal distribution of resources and rewards in society

Explanation: Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals in society based on factors such as wealth, power, and prestige, resulting in unequal access to resources and opportunities.

60. Which sociological theory is most concerned with understanding the role of power and inequality in shaping social relations?

(A) Social exchange theory

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, particularly through Marx's lens, focuses on the power dynamics between different groups in society and how inequality shapes social relationships and structures.

61. According to Karl Marx, the relationship between the ruling class and the working class is defined by:

(A) Social cooperation

(B) Political alliance

(D) Cultural exchange

Explanation: Karl Marx argued that the relationship between the ruling class (bourgeoisie) and the working class (proletariat) is defined by exploitation, where the bourgeoisie profits from the labor of the proletariat.

62. Which sociologist introduced the concept of "social facts" as a way of understanding societal forces that shape individual actions?

(A) Max Weber

(B) Karl Marx

(D) Herbert Spencer

Explanation: Émile Durkheim introduced the concept of "social facts," which refers to social structures, norms, and values that exist outside of the individual and influence behavior in society.

63. Which of the following sociological theories emphasizes the importance of personal relationships and everyday interactions in shaping society?

(A) Social functionalism

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism focuses on the small-scale, day-to-day social interactions that shape people's identities, behaviors, and the meanings attached to social roles and symbols.

64. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of postmodernism in sociology?

(A) A rejection of grand narratives and universal truths

(B) An emphasis on individual subjectivity and multiple realities

(D) A focus on deconstructing traditional social structures and categories

Explanation: Postmodernism rejects the idea of universal truths and objective knowledge, instead emphasizing the fluidity of reality and the importance of subjective experiences and diverse perspectives.

65. Which sociological perspective views society as a collection of social institutions that work together to ensure stability and maintain order?

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Postmodernism

Explanation: Structural functionalism views society as a system of interrelated institutions, such as family, education, and religion, that function together to maintain stability and order.

66. Which of the following is a key idea in the theory of social exchange?

(A) Society is built on shared norms and values

(B) People make decisions based on maximizing personal gain

(D) Social behavior is shaped by cultural symbols

(B) People make decisions based on maximizing personal gain

Explanation: Social exchange theory suggests that individuals make decisions based on a cost-benefit analysis, where they aim to maximize rewards and minimize costs in their relationships.

67. Which sociologist is most associated with the development of the theory of "bureaucracy" as a formal organizational structure?

(A) Max Weber

(B) Karl Marx

(D) Herbert Spencer

(A) Max Weber

Explanation: Max Weber developed the theory of bureaucracy, emphasizing a hierarchical structure, rules, and impersonal relationships as essential components of modern organizations.

68. According to conflict theory, which of the following is true about power relations in society?

(A) Power is equally distributed among all members of society

(B) Social order is maintained through consensus and agreement

(D) Social inequalities are based on shared values and norms

Explanation: Conflict theory argues that power and resources in society are unequally distributed, with the dominant class controlling social, economic, and political power, leading to inequality and conflict.

69. Which of the following does NOT align with the main ideas of feminist theory?

(A) It critiques gender-based inequalities in society

(B) It advocates for the elimination of patriarchy and gender discrimination

(D) It examines the social construction of gender roles and identities

Explanation: Feminist theory focuses on gender inequalities, the oppression of women, and the social construction of gender roles, while class struggles are more central to conflict theory.

70. Which theory suggests that society is composed of different groups with conflicting interests, especially between the elite and the working class?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Social learning theory

Explanation: Conflict theory, especially as developed by Marx, focuses on the struggle between different groups, particularly the conflict between the elite (capitalists) and the working class.

71. What does the term "class consciousness" refer to in Marxist theory?

(A) The awareness of one's economic position in society

(B) The cultural norms that bind society together

(D) The ability to rise above one's social class

(A) The awareness of one's economic position in society

Explanation: Class consciousness, according to Marx, refers to the awareness of one's position within the economic system and the recognition of the class struggle between the proletariat and the bourgeoisie.

72. Which of the following theories emphasizes the importance of social symbols and everyday interaction in shaping social reality?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Conflict theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism focuses on how people use symbols, such as language and gestures, in everyday interactions to create and shape social reality.

73. What is the primary focus of "critical theory" in sociology?

(A) The examination of social systems to preserve societal stability

(B) The critique of social inequalities and power structures

(D) The observation of social behavior in small groups

(B) The critique of social inequalities and power structures

Explanation: Critical theory, developed by the Frankfurt School, focuses on critiquing and changing society by addressing issues like inequality, power structures, and the influence of capitalism on culture and politics.

74. Which of the following sociological theories suggests that social change occurs through the continuous conflict between different groups?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Conflict theory

Explanation: Conflict theory suggests that social change arises from ongoing conflict between different social groups, such as the rich and the poor or the ruling class and the working class.

75. According to which theory, social behavior is best understood as a series of exchanges where individuals aim to maximize rewards and minimize costs?

(A) Social exchange theory

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Social constructivism

(A) Social exchange theory

Explanation: Social exchange theory posits that individuals engage in social interactions by calculating the potential rewards and costs, aiming to maximize personal benefit in relationships.

76. What is a key concept in structural functionalism?

(A) The importance of class struggle in shaping society

(B) The role of institutions in maintaining societal stability

(D) The subjective meanings people attach to their interactions

(B) The role of institutions in maintaining societal stability

Explanation: Structural functionalism emphasizes the functions of social institutions (e.g., family, religion, education) in maintaining stability and order within society.

77. Which of the following is a critique of postmodernism in sociology?

(A) It overemphasizes the importance of social institutions

(B) It rejects the use of empirical research and scientific methods

(D) It focuses too much on social order

(B) It rejects the use of empirical research and scientific methods

Explanation: One of the critiques of postmodernism is its rejection of scientific methods and empirical research, preferring subjective interpretations of social phenomena.

78. Which sociologist is associated with the theory of "verstehen" or interpretive understanding in sociology?

(A) Max Weber

(B) Karl Marx

(D) Herbert Spencer

(A) Max Weber

Explanation: Max Weber introduced the concept of "verstehen," which emphasizes understanding social actions from the perspective of the individuals involved, focusing on their meanings and intentions.

79. What is the key focus of feminist sociology?

(A) The study of social behavior in small groups

(B) The critique of gender inequalities and the patriarchy

(D) The social construction of reality through language

(B) The critique of gender inequalities and the patriarchy

Explanation: Feminist sociology critiques gender-based inequalities, particularly patriarchy, and focuses on the role of gender in shaping social structures, relationships, and experiences.

80. What is the term "hegemony" used to describe in the context of sociological theory?

(A) A system of inequality

(B) The dominance of one group over others, particularly through cultural means

(D) A method of social control through legal means

(B) The dominance of one group over others, particularly through cultural means

Explanation: Hegemony, a concept developed by Antonio Gramsci, refers to the dominance of a particular group or class, not just through force, but by shaping cultural and ideological beliefs that gain the consent of the subordinate group.

81. Which of the following theories views society as a set of interrelated parts that work together to maintain stability?

(A) Conflict theory

(B) Structural functionalism

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Structural functionalism

Explanation: Structural functionalism sees society as composed of different institutions and structures that work together to maintain social order, stability, and functioning.

82. Which sociologist is most closely associated with the concept of "power elite" in society?

(A) C. Wright Mills

(B) Max Weber

(D) Herbert Spencer

(A) C. Wright Mills

Explanation: C. Wright Mills is known for the concept of the "power elite," which refers to a small group of people who hold power in society, including political, military, and corporate elites.

83. According to conflict theory, which of the following is a major source of social inequality?

(A) Cultural differences

(B) Unequal distribution of wealth and resources

(D) Psychological factors

(B) Unequal distribution of wealth and resources

Explanation: Conflict theory argues that social inequality is primarily caused by the unequal distribution of wealth, resources, and power, often benefiting the elite at the expense of marginalized groups.

84. What is the central idea of postmodernism in sociology?

(A) There is one universal truth about society

(B) Social order is maintained through consensus

(D) Social change is driven by economic forces

Explanation: Postmodernism challenges the idea of objective reality, instead emphasizing that social reality is constructed through individual perspectives, experiences, and interpretations.

85. In the context of sociology, what does the term "social mobility" refer to?

(A) The movement of people from rural to urban areas

(B) The ability of individuals to move up or down the social ladder

(D) The movement of social norms over time

(B) The ability of individuals to move up or down the social ladder

Explanation: Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals or groups to move up or down in the social hierarchy, often related to changes in socioeconomic status or wealth.

86. Which of the following is a key focus of symbolic interactionism?

(A) How institutions maintain social order

(B) The role of language and symbols in shaping interactions

(D) The role of power in social conflict

(B) The role of language and symbols in shaping interactions

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism focuses on how individuals interact with each other through symbols, language, and gestures, and how these interactions create meaning in society.

87. What is a major criticism of structural functionalism?

(A) It overemphasizes conflict in society

(B) It ignores the role of power in social relations

(D) It overlooks social change

Explanation: A major criticism of structural functionalism is that it focuses on stability and order, and does not adequately explain or address social change and the role of conflict in shaping society.

88. Which theory suggests that social behavior is influenced by the rewards and punishments individuals receive in their interactions?

(A) Social exchange theory

(B) Structural functionalism

(D) Symbolic interactionism

(A) Social exchange theory

Explanation: Social exchange theory suggests that individuals engage in social interactions based on the rewards and punishments they anticipate from those interactions, seeking to maximize rewards and minimize costs.

89. In sociology, the term "socialization" refers to:

(A) The process of learning and adopting the behaviors, norms, and values of society

(B) The spread of cultural practices across societies

(D) The adjustment of social structures to meet economic needs

(A) The process of learning and adopting the behaviors, norms, and values of society

Explanation: Socialization is the lifelong process by which individuals learn and internalize the values, norms, and behaviors appropriate for their society and culture.

90. Which of the following theories focuses on how society's values and beliefs shape individual behavior?

(A) Social learning theory

(B) Structural functionalism

(D) Cultural sociology

(B) Structural functionalism

Explanation: Structural functionalism focuses on how society's institutions, norms, and values influence individual behavior and contribute to maintaining social order and stability.

91. Which theory is associated with the concept of "cultural lag," where non-material culture takes longer to adjust to changes in material culture?

(A) Structural functionalism

(B) Conflict theory

(D) Veblenian theory

Explanation: Sociocultural theory, particularly by William Fielding Ogburn, explains "cultural lag" as the period when non-material culture (such as beliefs, values, and norms) takes longer to adapt to changes in material culture (such as technology).

92. Which sociological theory emphasizes the significance of symbols and shared meanings in the development of social roles?

(A) Social learning theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Conflict theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism emphasizes the importance of symbols, shared meanings, and interactions in the formation of social roles and individual identities in society.

93. In Marxist theory, what is the term used to describe the working class who do not own the means of production?

(A) Bourgeoisie

(B) Proletariat

(D) Petit bourgeoisie

(B) Proletariat

Explanation: In Marxist theory, the "proletariat" refers to the working class, who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor to survive.

94. What does "ideal types" refer to in Weberian sociology?

(A) The most accurate representation of social behavior in society

(B) A conceptual model used to analyze social phenomena

(D) The structures that shape social behavior

(B) A conceptual model used to analyze social phenomena

Explanation: In Weberian sociology, "ideal types" are analytical constructs that serve as models to compare and contrast real-world social phenomena.

95. Which of the following theories posits that individuals interact based on the meanings they attach to symbols, and that these meanings are created through social interaction?

(A) Social learning theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

(D) Feminist theory

(B) Symbolic interactionism

Explanation: Symbolic interactionism, proposed by George Herbert Mead and others, argues that individuals act according to the meanings they attach to symbols, and these meanings are developed through social interactions.

96. According to Marx, what is the role of ideology in society?

(A) To maintain social harmony and consensus

(B) To perpetuate the interests of the ruling class

(D) To reflect the social reality of all classes equally

(B) To perpetuate the interests of the ruling class

Explanation: Marx argued that ideology is used by the ruling class to justify and perpetuate their control over the means of production and maintain their dominance in society.

97. What is the focus of the "humanistic sociology" approach?

(A) The study of social behavior through empirical data

(B) The understanding of social behavior in terms of human freedom and creativity

(D) The study of the material conditions in society

(B) The understanding of social behavior in terms of human freedom and creativity

Explanation: Humanistic sociology emphasizes the importance of human agency, freedom, and creativity in shaping social behavior, rather than focusing solely on social structures or material conditions.

98. Which of the following is a characteristic of the "lumpenproletariat" in Marxist theory?

(A) The working class with control over the means of production

(B) The aristocratic class who own the means of production

(D) The middle class who hold moderate power

Explanation: The "lumpenproletariat" refers to the marginalized or underclass in society, often disconnected from productive labor, and can include beggars, criminals, or the unemployed.

99. In sociology, what is meant by the "social construction of reality"?

(A) The idea that all social behavior is predetermined by genetics

(B) The process by which individuals create social norms and institutions

(D) The concept that social phenomena are shaped by subjective interpretations

Explanation: The "social construction of reality" refers to the process by which individuals and groups create and shape social reality through their perceptions, actions, and interactions.

100. According to Émile Durkheim, the division of labor in society leads to which of the following?

(A) Social solidarity

(B) Economic inequality

(D) Conflict between social classes

(A) Social solidarity

Explanation: Durkheim argued that the division of labor in society leads to "social solidarity," where individuals in different roles work together to maintain the stability and functioning of society, creating cohesion.

Nature and Task of Theory

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Follow by Email

About Us

Contact Form