Government, Economy, and Power Structures (9A) - Psych & Soc

What is the definition of a mixed economy?

Economy combining market mechanisms with government regulation/services. Balances free market efficiency with social welfare goals.
What is the definition of capitalism as an economic system?

Private ownership of production with market-based allocation of resources. Markets determine prices; profit motive drives economic activity.
What is the definition of a theocracy?

Government in which religious leaders and religious law rule. Religious doctrine serves as the basis for governance.
What is the definition of an oligarchy?

Rule by a small, powerful elite group. Power concentrated in few hands, not necessarily wealthy.
What is the definition of bureaucracy in sociology?

Formal hierarchy with rules, specialization, and impersonality. Bureaucracies organize work through standardized procedures.
Which concept describes worker disconnection from product, process, self, or others under capitalism?

Alienation. Marx argued capitalism separates workers from their humanity.
What is a command economy, defined by ownership and allocation of resources?

Central authority controls production and distribution; limited market pricing. Government planners decide what to produce and who gets it.
What is a mixed economy, and what is its defining feature?

Combines market mechanisms with government regulation and public programs. Balances free enterprise with social welfare and market corrections.
What is the definition of legitimacy in political sociology?

Perceived rightfulness of authority and acceptance of rule. Legitimacy ensures stability in governance by fostering consent, reducing the need for coercion in maintaining order.
What is the definition of the power elite in sociological analyses of stratification?

A small group controlling major institutions and disproportionate power. This concept, coined by C. Wright Mills, highlights how interconnected elites in military, corporate, and political spheres dominate decision-making in stratified societies.
What is the definition of legitimacy in government?

Public belief that a ruler or system has rightful authority. Essential for stable governance without constant coercion.
Which concept describes the sale of labor for wages because workers lack ownership of the means of production?

Wage labor. Workers must sell labor since they don't own factories/tools.
What is the definition of power in sociology (as used on the MCAT)?

Ability to influence others and control resources despite resistance. Power exists even when others resist, unlike authority.
What is normative power in social and political institutions?

Power based on shared norms, values, and social approval. Derives from moral authority and cultural consensus.
What is the definition of a bureaucracy in the Weberian sense?

Hierarchical, rule-based organization with specialized roles. Weber emphasized rationality and impersonal rule application.
What is bureaucracy in the Weberian sense?

Formal organization with hierarchy, specialization, rules, and impersonality. Weber identified these features as defining modern organizations.
What is capitalism as an economic system?

Private ownership of production with market-based allocation. Profit motive drives resource distribution through supply/demand.
What is the definition of a state (nation-state) in political sociology?

Political entity with territory, population, government, and sovereignty. Four criteria distinguish states from other political entities.
Which option best describes regressive taxation: tax rate rises, falls, or stays constant as income rises?

Falls as income rises. Higher earners pay lower percentage, burdening poor more.
What is socialism, defined by ownership and the intended distribution of benefits?

Greater collective/public control of production to promote more equal outcomes. Aims to reduce inequality through democratic or state ownership.
What is the definition of authority (as distinct from power) in sociology?

Legitimated power recognized as rightful by those subject to it. Max Weber distinguished authority from mere power by emphasizing its basis in voluntary compliance due to perceived legitimacy.
Which option best describes progressive taxation: tax rate rises, falls, or stays constant as income rises?

Rises as income rises. Higher earners pay higher percentage to reduce inequality.
What is the definition of totalitarianism?

State control over most aspects of public and private life. Goes beyond authoritarianism to control all societal spheres.
What is the definition of legitimacy in political sociology?

Widespread belief that an authority or rule is proper and should be obeyed. Creates voluntary compliance through perceived rightfulness.
What is the definition of a theocracy as a form of government?

Government ruled by religious leaders or religious law. Religious doctrine serves as basis for civil law and policy.
What is the definition of socialism (as an economic system) on the MCAT?

Public or collective ownership to reduce inequality and meet needs. State or community ownership aims to benefit all citizens.
What is the primary functionalist view of government in maintaining social order?

Government enforces norms and coordinates institutions to maintain stability. Functionalists see government as essential for integrating society by enforcing shared norms and resolving conflicts.
What is the definition of legitimacy as applied to governments?

Public belief that a government and its actions are proper and justified. Essential for stable governance; citizens accept the system as valid.
What is the definition of a command (centrally planned) economy?

Allocation primarily determined by governmental planning and directives. Central planning allows governments to direct resources toward collective goals, often prioritizing equity over individual incentives.
What is the definition of a meritocracy?

A system where status is allocated by achievement and ability. Rewards talent and effort rather than birth or connections.
What is the definition of power in social science terms?

The capacity to influence others, even against resistance. Can be exercised through force, persuasion, or resources.
What is the definition of power in sociology?

Ability to influence others, even against their resistance. Power operates regardless of consent or legitimacy.
What is the definition of meritocracy in social stratification?

System where status is allocated by ability, achievement, or effort. Contrasts with systems based on birth, wealth, or connections.
What is the definition of capitalism as an economic system?

Private ownership of production with investment and profit in markets. Capitalism drives economic growth through competition and private incentives, but can exacerbate social inequalities.
What is the definition of capitalism in economic sociology?

Private ownership of production with profit-driven markets. Individuals/corporations own businesses for profit.
Which concept describes the belief that societal hierarchies are justified and natural?

Social dominance orientation. SDO predicts support for inequality and group-based hierarchies.
What is a bureaucracy in the Weberian sense?

A formal organization with hierarchy, rules, specialization, and impersonality. Weber identified these traits as defining modern rational organizations.
What is the definition of a mixed economy?

Market allocation combined with government regulation and services. Balances free market efficiency with social welfare goals.
What is Max Weber's legal-rational authority based on?

Impersonal rules, laws, and formal procedures. Modern states rely on codified systems, not persons.
What is a totalitarian regime, and what distinguishes it from authoritarianism?

State seeks total control over public and private life using ideology and coercion. Goes beyond political control to reshape society and individual thought.
What is the definition of communism as a theoretical economic end-state?

Classless society with communal ownership and no private property. Marx's ideal society without class distinctions or money.
What is the key claim of Marxist (conflict) theory about power and economy?

Economic class conflict drives inequality; owners control institutions. Views power through lens of bourgeoisie vs. proletariat struggle.
What is the definition of socialism as an economic system (broadly defined)?

Collective or state control of key production to promote equality. Socialism aims to reduce class disparities by redistributing control over production to workers or the state.
What is bureaucracy in Weber's sense as a form of organization and governance?

A hierarchical, rule-bound system with specialized roles and offices. Weber viewed bureaucracy as the most rational organizational form for large-scale administration in modern societies.
What is the definition of a market economy in terms of allocation of goods and services?

Allocation primarily via supply, demand, and prices in markets. In market economies, resource distribution responds to consumer choices and competition, encouraging efficiency and innovation.
What are the three types of authority in Weber's typology?

Traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal authority. Weber's typology classifies authority based on the source of legitimacy, influencing how societies organize power structures.
What is rational-legal authority in Max Weber's typology?

Authority derived from laws, formal rules, and offices. Modern societies' dominant form; power comes from position, not person.
What is the definition of authority, and what makes it different from power?

Authority is legitimate power accepted as rightful by those affected. Legitimacy distinguishes authority from raw power or coercion.
What is the key claim of elite theory about who holds power in society?

A small, privileged elite controls major institutions and decision-making. Argues power concentrates in few hands despite democratic appearances.
What is the definition of a monarchy as a form of government?

Rule by a single hereditary sovereign (king or queen). Can be absolute or constitutional with limited powers.
What is the definition of a command economy?

Production and prices are centrally planned by the state. Government decides what to produce and at what price.
Which theory states that power is concentrated in a small, unified ruling class?

Power elite theory. C. Wright Mills argued military, corporate, and political elites dominate.
What is the definition of an authoritarian government?

System with concentrated power and limited political freedoms. Restricts opposition but may allow some private freedoms.
Identify the term for a group that seeks to influence policy without seeking elected office.

Interest group. These groups lobby policymakers to advance specific agendas, influencing legislation without direct governance roles.
What is a democracy, defined by how political power is allocated?

A system where political power rests with the people, directly or via elections. Popular sovereignty through voting distinguishes it from autocracy.
What is charismatic authority in Max Weber's typology?

Authority based on perceived extraordinary traits of a leader. Often unstable; depends on personal magnetism rather than institutions.
What is the definition of power in the context of government and social relations?

The capacity to influence others and control resources or outcomes. Power enables individuals or groups to achieve goals despite resistance, forming the foundation of political and social hierarchies.
What is the definition of a welfare state in relation to government and economy?

Government provides social protections such as health, income, and aid. Welfare states mitigate market failures by ensuring basic needs are met, promoting social stability and equality.
What is the difference between absolute poverty and relative poverty?

Absolute: basic needs unmet; Relative: below societal standard. Absolute is survival; relative is social comparison.
What is the definition of a plutocracy?

Rule by the wealthy; political power concentrated in rich elites. Economic wealth translates directly into political influence.
Identify the concept: unequal exchange of labor for wages generating profit for owners.

Surplus value. Marx's term for profit extracted from workers' unpaid labor time.
What is traditional authority in Max Weber's typology?

Authority based on customs, long-standing practices, and inherited status. Common in monarchies and tribal societies; "we've always done it this way."
What is the definition of a totalitarian state in political sociology?

State seeks total control over public and private life. Totalitarian regimes control all aspects of citizens' lives.
What is the definition of a totalitarian government?

System seeking extensive control over public and private life. Goes beyond authoritarianism to control all aspects of society.
What is the conflict theory view of government's role in stratified societies?

Government often protects the interests of dominant groups and elites. Conflict theorists argue that government reinforces existing power imbalances, serving the ruling class over the marginalized.
Which type of authority rests on devotion to an exceptional leader's personal qualities?

Charismatic authority. Followers attribute extraordinary qualities to the leader, inspiring loyalty that can lead to social change or instability.
What is coercive power in government and other power structures?

Power based on punishment or the threat of force. Relies on fear and negative consequences to ensure compliance.
What is the definition of government legitimacy in political sociology?

Public belief that a government has the right to rule. Legitimacy requires citizens' acceptance, not just force.
What is the definition of bureaucracy in modern states?

Hierarchical administrative system using rules and specialized roles. Weber's ideal type emphasizing efficiency and rationality.
What is the definition of authority in sociology (as used on the MCAT)?

Legitimate power accepted as appropriate by those subject to it. Authority is power that people view as rightful.
What is an authoritarian (or autocratic) regime in terms of political power?

Power is concentrated in a leader or small group with limited political freedoms. Opposition parties and free press are typically suppressed or banned.
What is Weber's traditional authority based on?

Custom and long-standing cultural or religious practices. Traditional authority relies on "how it's always been done."
What is the definition of socialism as an economic system?

Greater collective or state role in ownership and distribution of resources. Aims to reduce inequality through public control of key industries.
Identify the concept: using governmental rules to shape behavior through rewards and penalties.

Social control. Governments use mechanisms like laws and incentives to align individual behaviors with societal goals, maintaining order.
What is the definition of totalitarianism?

State seeks total control of public and private life, often via ideology. Goes beyond authoritarianism to control thoughts and beliefs.
What is the definition of an authoritarian government?

Centralized power with limited political freedoms and participation. Restricts opposition parties and civil liberties.
Which theory argues that power is dispersed among competing groups and interests?

Pluralist theory. No single group dominates; policy emerges from group competition.
Which term describes a political system in which power is concentrated in a single ruler or small elite with limited political freedoms?

Authoritarianism. Authoritarian regimes restrict opposition and civil liberties.
Which type of authority is based on rules, offices, and formal procedures?

Rational-legal authority. This form relies on impersonal, bureaucratic systems to ensure efficiency and predictability in modern states.
What is the definition of a nation (as distinct from a state)?

Group with shared identity (culture, history, language) and solidarity. Cultural unity distinct from political boundaries of states.
What is the "iron law of oligarchy" (Michels) in organizations and politics?

Large organizations tend to become dominated by a small elite leadership. Democratic intentions often yield to concentrated decision-making power.
Which social theory argues that society is shaped by class conflict over control of the means of production?

Marxist conflict theory. Marx saw history as struggle between bourgeoisie and proletariat.
What is the definition of authority (as distinct from coercion) in sociology?

Power viewed as legitimate by those subject to it. Authority is power accepted as rightful, unlike coercion.
What is the definition of authority in sociology and political science?

Legitimate power recognized as rightful by those who are governed. Distinguishes authority from raw power by emphasizing acceptance.
What is the definition of a welfare state?

Government provides social services and income supports. Protects citizens from market failures and life risks.
What is the definition of a nation-state?

Sovereign state whose citizens share a national identity. Combines political sovereignty with cultural unity.
What is the key idea of pluralism as a theory of power distribution?

Power is spread across competing interest groups; no single elite dominates. Contrasts with elite theory by emphasizing multiple power centers.
What is sovereignty in the context of a state?

Supreme authority to govern without external interference. Core principle allowing states to self-govern their territory.
What is the interactionist focus when studying government and power in daily life?

How power and authority are constructed through micro-level interactions. Symbolic interactionism examines how everyday exchanges and symbols shape perceptions of authority and power dynamics.
What is the difference between socialism and communism in economic organization?

Socialism: state role with private property; communism: classless common ownership. Key difference is degree of state control and property rights.
What is the conflict theory view of economic stratification?

Inequality is maintained to benefit elites controlling resources. Views inequality as deliberate, not natural or functional.
What is a bureaucracy in Weberian terms?

Hierarchical organization governed by formal rules. Weber saw bureaucracy as the purest rational-legal form.
What is the definition of an oligarchy?

Rule by a small group that holds concentrated power. Few individuals control political and economic power.
What is a market economy, defined by ownership and allocation of resources?

Private ownership with resource allocation largely determined by supply and demand. Prices emerge from competition rather than government planning.
What is the definition of legitimacy as it relates to government and authority?

Perceived rightfulness of authority that promotes voluntary compliance. Key factor that distinguishes accepted authority from coercion.
What is the definition of an oligarchy as a power structure?

Rule by a small group that holds disproportionate political power. Oligarchies concentrate power among elites, often limiting democratic participation and perpetuating inequality.
What is capitalism, defined by ownership, profit, and labor relations?

Private ownership of capital; production for profit; wage labor predominates. Workers sell labor to owners who control means of production.
What is the definition of a market economy?

Supply and demand largely determine production and prices. Prices emerge from competition, not central planning.
Which term describes the ability to influence others through attraction and persuasion rather than coercion?

Soft power. Coined by Nye; contrasts with hard power (military/economic force).
What is the definition of a democracy in terms of political structure?

Political system where power is vested in the people via participation. Can be direct (voting) or representative (elected officials).
What is charismatic authority, and what is its main basis of legitimacy?

Authority based on devotion to a leader's perceived exceptional qualities. Personal magnetism creates followers who believe in the leader's mission.
What is the definition of pluralism as a theory of political power distribution?

Power is dispersed among competing interest groups, not a single elite. Pluralism argues that democracy functions through negotiation among diverse groups, preventing any single entity from dominating.
What is Max Weber's charismatic authority based on?

Perceived extraordinary qualities of a leader. Leaders inspire devotion through personal magnetism.
What is Weber's charismatic authority based on?

Perceived exceptional personal qualities of a leader. Charismatic leaders inspire followers through personal magnetism.
What is the definition of a command economy?

Central authority makes major decisions about production and prices. Government planning replaces market mechanisms.
What is the definition of legitimacy in political sociology?

Belief that a ruler or institution has the right to govern. Legitimacy justifies why rulers should be obeyed.
What is traditional authority, and what is its main basis of legitimacy?

Authority based on long-standing customs, lineage, and established practices. "We've always done it this way" justifies hereditary monarchies.
Which concept describes unequal exchange where workers produce value kept as profit by owners?

Marx's surplus value (basis for exploitation in capitalism). In Marxist theory, surplus value represents the difference between labor's output and wages, enabling capitalist profit through exploitation.
What are Max Weber's three types of authority?

Traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal authority. Weber's typology categorizes how leaders justify their right to rule.
What is the definition of sovereignty in political science?

Supreme authority of a state over its territory and internal affairs. Foundation of international law and state independence.
What is the definition of power in social science as used on the MCAT?

Ability to influence others and control resources or outcomes. Encompasses both direct control and indirect influence over behavior.
What is the definition of power in sociology (as used in social stratification)?

Power is the ability to control others, resources, or outcomes despite resistance. Distinguishes power from influence by emphasizing control despite opposition.
What is the definition of a mixed economy?

Market allocation combined with significant state regulation. Blends market mechanisms with government intervention.
Which type of authority is based on longstanding customs and inherited status?

Traditional authority. It draws legitimacy from historical precedents and cultural norms, often seen in monarchies or patriarchal systems.
What is the definition of a social institution, as used in sociology of government and economy?

An organized system of norms and roles that meets societal needs. Institutions like government and economy provide structured ways to fulfill essential functions, promoting social cohesion.
Which term describes a system in which government is ruled by the people, typically through elected representatives?

Democracy. Citizens elect representatives to make decisions.
What is the definition of communism in classical Marxist theory?

A classless society with common ownership and no private property. Marx envisioned communism as the ultimate stage where exploitation ends through abolition of private property and classes.
What is coercive power (coercion) in the context of government and institutions?

Control through force or threat of punishment to obtain compliance. Uses fear and punishment rather than persuasion or legitimacy.
What is Max Weber's traditional authority based on?

Long-standing customs and inherited status. Examples include monarchy and tribal leadership.
What is the definition of a democracy?

Political system in which power is held by the people. Citizens participate through voting and representation.
What is the definition of authority in a political or organizational context?

Legitimate power recognized as rightful by others. Differs from raw power by having social acceptance of its use.
What is the definition of power in the context of social institutions?

Capacity to influence others or control resources, even against resistance. Broader than authority; includes ability to act despite opposition.
Identify the concept: policies that reduce inequality via taxes and transfers.

Redistribution (redistributive social policy). Progressive taxation and welfare programs equalize wealth.
What is Weber's rational-legal authority based on?

Formal rules, laws, and bureaucratic procedures. Modern governments typically use rational-legal authority.
What is rational-legal authority, and what is its main basis of legitimacy?

Authority based on formal rules, laws, and bureaucratic procedures. Modern states rely on constitutions and legal systems for legitimacy.
What is the definition of authority (as distinct from power)?

Legitimate power accepted as rightful by those governed. Differs from raw power by requiring consent of the governed.
What is the definition of oligarchy as a form of government?

Rule by a small, elite group with concentrated power. Often based on wealth, military power, or family connections.
What is the definition of communism as a theoretical economic system?

Classless system with common ownership and distribution by need. Marx's ideal: "from each according to ability, to each according to need."
What is the definition of a democracy as a form of government?

Political system in which power is derived from the people's participation. Citizens choose leaders through voting and civic engagement.
What is the definition of a market economy?

Prices and production are determined mainly by supply and demand. Market forces, not government, guide economic decisions.
What is utilitarian power in an organization or society?

Power based on material rewards such as money, jobs, or benefits. Motivates through tangible incentives and economic advantages.
What is the definition of a mixed economy in political economy?

An economy combining market mechanisms with government regulation. Mixed economies balance market freedoms with state interventions to correct inequalities and provide public goods.
What is the definition of a nation (as distinct from a state)?

A cultural group with shared identity, history, and traditions. Based on ethnic/cultural bonds rather than political boundaries.
What is the definition of a theocracy?

Government ruled by religious leaders or religious law. Divine authority claimed as basis for political power.

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