Sociological Theoretical Perspectives (9A) - Psych & Soc

Which concept best fits: a person changes behavior because they believe others see them as "smart"?

Looking-glass self. Self-perception shaped by imagined judgments of others.
What is class consciousness in conflict theory?

Awareness of shared class position and common economic interests. Necessary for collective action to challenge existing power structures.
What is the core focus of symbolic interactionism in explaining social life?

Micro-level meaning-making through symbols and social interaction. People create reality through shared symbols in daily interactions.
Which theoretical perspective best fits this claim: "A handshake has meaning because people agree on it"?

Symbolic interactionism. Gestures gain meaning through collective interpretation.
Which perspective best fits a study of how people negotiate meaning through everyday conversation?

Symbolic interactionism. Focuses on micro-level meaning-making processes.
What is anomie in Durkheim's framework?

Normlessness due to weakened social regulation. Occurs when rapid social change disrupts traditional norms and values.
What is the definition of social constructionism as a sociological perspective?

Categories and knowledge are created and maintained through social processes. Reality isn't fixed but shaped by collective agreement.
What is dramaturgical theory (Goffman) primarily used to explain?

Impression management in social interactions. Life as theater where we perform roles for audiences.
What is the core idea of symbolic interactionism in sociology?

Social reality is constructed through meanings from interactions. This micro-level approach emphasizes how individuals create and interpret symbols in everyday interactions to form social reality.
Which perspective most directly analyzes how institutions reproduce inequality: functionalism, conflict theory, or interactionism?

Conflict theory. Focuses on power struggles and resource distribution.
What is the latent function of a social institution or practice?

Its unintended or unrecognized function. Latent functions are hidden consequences that may still support social order but are not intended or immediately apparent.
What is the dramaturgical perspective (Goffman) in one sentence?

Social interaction is like performance with impression management. Goffman's approach likens social life to theater, where individuals perform roles to manage impressions in front and back stages.
In Mead's theory, what is the "generalized other"?

Internalized norms and expectations of the broader society. Represents society's collective attitudes and expectations.
What is a latent function in structural functionalism?

An unintended or unrecognized consequence of a social institution. Like schools creating social networks beyond just education.
Identify the theoretical perspective: inequality persists because dominant groups protect privilege.

Conflict theory. Views society through lens of power struggles.
What is the definition of cultural capital in Bourdieu's theory?

Nonfinancial assets (knowledge, tastes, credentials) that confer advantage. Education and cultural competence reproduce inequality.
What is the bourgeoisie in Marxist class theory?

The capitalist class that owns the means of production. Marx's term for those who profit from others' labor.
What is the defining feature of a bureaucracy in Weber's analysis?

Formal rules, hierarchy, specialization, and impersonal relationships. Weber emphasized these characteristics create efficient but rigid organizations.
In dramaturgical theory, what is the "back stage"?

Private setting where individuals drop the public performance. Where people relax and prepare for public performances.
What is the core focus of conflict theory in explaining social life?

Power and resource inequality drive social structure and change. Views society as groups competing for scarce resources.
Identify the concept: behavior shaped by anticipating others' judgments and reactions.

Looking-glass self. Cooley's concept of self-image formed through perceived social reflections.
What is a dysfunction in structural functionalism?

A social pattern that disrupts stability or causes negative effects. Example: unemployment disrupts economic stability.
What is the means of production in Marxist theory?

Resources and tools used to produce goods (factories, land, capital). Marx saw control of these as the basis of class division.
What is a latent function of a social institution?

An unintended or unrecognized consequence of an institution. Hidden effects that emerge beyond stated goals.
What is impression management in Goffman's framework?

Efforts to control how others perceive one's identity and actions. Strategic self-presentation to shape others' impressions.
What is the conflict theory definition of power?

The ability to control resources and influence others' outcomes. Central to understanding domination and resistance in social relations.
What is impression management in Goffman's dramaturgical approach?

Efforts to control how others perceive one's identity in interaction. Strategic presentation of self to achieve social goals.
What is social solidarity in Durkheim's terms?

Social cohesion created by shared norms and interdependence. The glue holding society together through common values.
What is a self-fulfilling prophecy in sociological terms?

A belief that leads to behaviors that make the belief come true. It occurs when expectations prompt actions that confirm the original false conception, often in social contexts.
What is the term for the group that owns the means of production in Marxist conflict theory?

Bourgeoisie. Marx's term for the capitalist class controlling production.
Which perspective best explains inequality as produced by institutionalized competition for resources?

Conflict theory. Analyzes how systems perpetuate advantage for dominant groups.
What is manifest function in a structural functionalist analysis?

An intended and recognized consequence of an institution. The explicit, stated purpose that everyone recognizes.
What is the central claim of structural functionalism about society?

Society is a system of interdependent parts that maintain stability. Each part serves a function to keep the whole system balanced.
What is false consciousness in conflict theory?

Misunderstanding one's class interests that supports the status quo. Example: workers believing they'll become wealthy through hard work alone.
What is the difference between micro- and macro-level sociological theories?

Micro: face-to-face interaction; Macro: large-scale social structures. Micro studies individuals; macro studies institutions and systems.
What does the rational choice theory perspective assume about social behavior?

Individuals act to maximize benefits and minimize costs. Applies economic logic to all human decisions and interactions.
What is dysfunction in functionalist theory?

A social pattern that disrupts stability or harms system functioning. Like crime undermining trust needed for social cooperation.
What is social capital in sociological theory?

Resources gained through social networks and relationships. Benefits derived from group membership and social connections.
What does symbolic interactionism emphasize as the basis of social reality?

Shared meanings created through social interaction shape social reality. Focuses on how people construct meaning through symbols and interactions.
What does social control theory propose about why people do not deviate?

Strong social bonds and monitoring reduce deviant behavior. Hirschi's theory suggests that attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief in social norms deter individuals from deviance.
Which concept describes the way social norms regulate behavior through rewards and sanctions?

Social control. Society enforces conformity through praise and punishment.
What is the key idea of the dramaturgical approach (Goffman) to interaction?

People manage impressions by performing roles for an audience. Social life is theater where we act out scripts for others.
Which sociological perspective best fits: society is held together by shared norms?

Structural functionalism. This perspective emphasizes consensus and social integration.
Which theoretical perspective best fits this claim: "Schools transmit shared values that bind society"?

Structural functionalism. Education serves to unify society through common culture.
What is the core assumption of functionalism about how society operates?

Society is a system of interdependent parts that maintain stability. Each part serves a function to maintain equilibrium.
What is the difference between manifest and latent functions in functionalism?

Manifest: intended effects; latent: unintended effects. Manifest are planned outcomes; latent are unexpected consequences.
What is the main focus of critical race theory in sociology?

Racism is systemic and embedded in laws, institutions, and policies. Challenges colorblind approaches to racial inequality.
What is the conflict theory definition of power?

The ability to influence others and control resources despite resistance. Differs from authority, which is legitimate power accepted by others.
What is the core claim of structural functionalism about how society is organized?

Society is a system of interdependent parts that maintain stability. Each part serves a function to keep the whole system balanced.
In Mead's theory, what is the "I" component of the self?

The spontaneous, impulsive, subjective part of the self. The creative, unpredictable aspect before social filtering.
Which sociological perspective is primarily a macro-level approach: functionalism or symbolic interactionism?

Functionalism. Analyzes society-wide structures and institutions, not individual interactions.
What is dysfunction in structural functionalism?

A social pattern that disrupts stability or produces negative consequences. Like unemployment undermining economic stability.
What is the core idea of social constructionism about categories such as race or gender?

They are created and maintained through social processes. Society collectively agrees to treat concepts as real.
What are the three types of authority in Weber's typology?

Traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal authority. Based on custom, personal qualities, or legal-rational systems respectively.
Identify the theoretical perspective: society is held together by shared values and institutions.

Functionalism. Emphasizes consensus and institutional stability.
Which perspective best fits: education reproduces class inequality via hidden curriculum?

Conflict theory. Emphasizes power dynamics and inequality in institutions.
What is the definition of the looking-glass self in Cooley's theory?

Self-concept forms from perceived judgments of others. We see ourselves through how we think others see us.
What is anomie in Durkheim's theory?

Normlessness due to weakened social regulation and unclear expectations. Occurs when rapid social change disrupts traditional norms and values.
Identify the best theoretical perspective: "A handshake signals respect through shared meaning."

Symbolic interactionism. Symbolic interactionism interprets gestures like handshakes as symbols that convey mutual understanding and social norms.
What is a manifest function in structural functionalism?

An intended, recognized consequence of a social institution. Example: schools' intended purpose is education.
What is the generalized other in Mead's theory of social development?

Internalized attitudes of the broader society. Society's collective viewpoint we adopt as our own.
What is the key idea of Marx's view of class conflict?

Bourgeoisie exploit proletariat through control of the means of production. Owners profit from workers' labor through ownership.
What is the core claim of feminist theory as a sociological perspective?

Gender inequality is structurally produced and maintained by patriarchy. Analyzes how male dominance shapes social institutions.
What is social dysfunction in structural functionalism?

A social pattern that disrupts system stability or social order. Elements that harm society's equilibrium and functioning.
What is the definition of role-taking in Mead's theory?

Adopting another person's perspective to guide one's behavior. Understanding situations by mentally standing in others' shoes.
What is the key assumption of social constructionism about categories like race or gender?

They are created and maintained through social processes and meaning. Reality is socially constructed, not naturally given.
Identify the theoretical perspective: "A label like 'delinquent' shapes identity and future behavior."

Symbolic interactionism. Shows how labels become self-fulfilling prophecies.
What is the core claim of conflict theory about the basis of social order?

Social order reflects competition over scarce resources and power inequalities. Sees society as shaped by struggle between groups with unequal resources.
Which sociological perspective is primarily a micro-level approach: conflict theory or symbolic interactionism?

Symbolic interactionism. Examines face-to-face interactions and individual meaning-making processes.
Which sociological perspective best fits: inequality persists because it benefits elites?

Conflict theory. This perspective focuses on power struggles and resource competition.
What does labeling theory propose is the key driver of deviance?

Deviance is amplified by social labels and resulting self-identity. Labeling creates a deviant identity through societal reactions, leading to secondary deviance as individuals internalize the label.
Identify the concept: shared values and norms that hold society together.

Social cohesion (value consensus). Durkheim's term for unity through shared beliefs.
What is the Thomas theorem in sociology?

If situations are defined as real, they are real in consequences. The theorem highlights how subjective interpretations of situations influence behavior and produce tangible outcomes.
What is the core idea of structural functionalism in sociology?

Society is a system of interdependent parts that maintain stability. This perspective views society as an organism where each component contributes to overall equilibrium and functionality.
Which perspective most directly emphasizes micro-level meanings and symbols?

Symbolic interactionism. This micro-oriented theory focuses on how individuals use symbols and interactions to construct personal and social meanings.
What does the social constructionism perspective claim about social reality?

Social reality is created and maintained through shared meanings. Nothing is inherently real; society collectively defines what's real.
Which concept best describes Marx's idea that workers are separated from their labor?

Alienation. Workers don't control the products or profits of their work.
What is the core claim of symbolic interactionism about social life?

Social reality is constructed through meanings created in interaction. People actively create shared meanings through symbols.
What is anomie in Durkheimian theory?

Normlessness from weakened social regulation and guidance. Durkheim's term for breakdown of social norms.
What does structural strain theory (Merton) propose causes deviance?

Strain from blocked access to culturally valued goals via legit means. Merton's theory argues that deviance emerges from anomie when societal structures limit access to approved methods for achieving success.
Which sociological perspective views society as interdependent parts that maintain stability?

Structural functionalism. Views society as a system where each part contributes to overall stability.
Identify the best theoretical perspective: "Schools reproduce class inequality."

Conflict theory. Conflict theory views education as a mechanism that perpetuates social stratification and dominant class interests.
What is the definition of the self-fulfilling prophecy in sociology?

A belief evokes behaviors that make the belief come true. Expectations create their own reality through action.
What is the looking-glass self in Cooley's symbolic interactionism?

Self-concept formed by imagining how others perceive and judge us. We see ourselves reflected in others' reactions to us.
What is manifest function in functionalist theory?

An intended and recognized consequence of a social institution. Purposeful outcomes that institutions are designed to achieve.
What is the definition of the looking-glass self (Cooley)?

Self-concept forms from imagining how others perceive and judge us. We see ourselves through others' perceived reactions.
What is a manifest function in functionalist theory?

An intended and recognized consequence of a social institution. Like education's goal to teach skills - obvious and planned.
What is role strain in sociology?

Stress from incompatible demands within a single social role. Role strain arises when conflicting expectations within the same role create stress for the individual.
What is the definition of a social institution in sociological analysis?

An organized system of norms and roles meeting social needs. Established patterns fulfilling essential societal functions.
What is social solidarity in Durkheimian functionalism?

Social cohesion arising from shared norms and interdependence. The bonds that unite members through common values and mutual dependence.
What is mechanical solidarity?

Cohesion from similarity and shared collective conscience. Found in traditional societies with homogeneous beliefs and lifestyles.
Which adaptation rejects both cultural goals and legitimate means in Merton strain theory?

Retreatism. Retreatists withdraw from societal expectations, often leading to isolation or alternative lifestyles like addiction.
What is a latent function in functionalist theory?

An unintended and often unrecognized consequence of an institution. Like schools creating social networks - hidden side effects.
Identify the theoretical perspective: "Education reproduces class inequality and benefits elites."

Conflict theory. Sees schools as maintaining class divisions.
What is the central focus of conflict theory in explaining social organization?

Power differentials and competition over scarce resources shape society. Emphasizes inequality and struggle between groups for limited resources.
What is the Thomas theorem in sociology?

If situations are defined as real, they are real in consequences. Shows how subjective reality creates objective consequences.
What is the key distinction between Mead's "I" and "me"?

"I" is spontaneous self; "me" is internalized social expectations. Creative impulse vs socialized component of self.
What is latent function in functionalist theory?

An unintended and unrecognized consequence of a social institution. Hidden benefits that emerge without planning.
Which concept best fits this example: school teaches punctuality and obedience without stating it?

Latent function. Unintended socialization into workplace norms.
What is the definition of the generalized other in Mead's theory?

Internalized societal expectations used to evaluate one's actions. Society's voice in your head judging right from wrong.
What is the central assumption of structural functionalism about society?

Society is a system of interdependent parts that maintain stability. Views society like an organism where each part serves a function.
What is the definition of the power elite in C. Wright Mills's theory?

A small group controlling major political, military, and economic institutions. Elite coordination across society's key sectors.
Identify the perspective: a study analyzes how patients interpret "being sick" in daily interactions.

Symbolic interactionism. Focus on meaning-making through interaction is symbolic.
What is cultural capital in a conflict-theory framework of education?

Valued cultural knowledge and skills that confer social advantage. Bourdieu's concept explaining how elites maintain advantage through culture.
What does Goffman's dramaturgical approach compare social interaction to?

A theatrical performance with impression management. Life is a stage where we perform roles for audiences.
Which concept best fits: an institution unintentionally increases inequality while serving a stated goal?

Latent function. Unintended consequences are latent, not manifest.
What is a latent function in structural functionalism?

An unintended or unrecognized function of a social institution. Hidden consequences that emerge beyond stated institutional goals.
What is the definition of the Thomas theorem in symbolic interactionism?

If situations are defined as real, they become real in consequences. Beliefs shape reality - thinking you're smart can make you act smart.
What is the core claim of structural functionalism about how society works?

Society is a set of interdependent parts that maintain stability and order. Views society as an organism where each part contributes to overall functioning.
What is the key idea of Weber's rationalization in modern societies?

Increasing reliance on efficiency, calculability, and formal rules. Modern life becomes predictable, quantified, and bureaucratic.
What does the term proletariat refer to in Marxist theory?

Workers who sell labor for wages. Marx's term for the working class lacking ownership of production.
What is a social dysfunction in structural functionalism?

A social pattern that disrupts stability or harms social order. Elements that undermine social equilibrium or functioning.
What term describes a social pattern that disrupts society in functionalist theory?

Dysfunction. Elements that harm social stability rather than contributing to it.
What is role conflict in sociology?

Tension from competing demands between two or more roles. Role conflict emerges when obligations from different roles are incompatible, forcing prioritization or compromise.
What is the core claim of structural functionalism about how society remains stable?

Society is a system of interdependent parts that maintain social order. Each part serves a function that contributes to overall stability.
What is the definition of the looking-glass self (Cooley)?

Self-concept forms from perceived judgments of others. We see ourselves through how we think others see us.
What is the main focus of conflict theory when analyzing social life?

Power, inequality, and competition over scarce resources. Views society as groups struggling for limited resources.
What is social dysfunction in functionalist terms?

A social process that disrupts system stability and functioning. Elements that harm social equilibrium and integration.
Which sociological perspective best fits: behavior changes when the meaning of a symbol changes?

Symbolic interactionism. This perspective analyzes how shared meanings shape interactions.
Which concept is illustrated: schools create peer networks that aid future jobs unintentionally?

Latent function. Unintended benefit of schooling beyond formal education.
What is social solidarity in Durkheimian theory?

Social bonds integrating individuals into a collective. Durkheim's concept of unity binding society together.
What is class consciousness in Marxist theory?

Awareness of shared class position and common economic interests. Recognition that leads to collective action against exploitation.
What is a latent function in structural functionalism?

An unintended, unrecognized consequence of a social institution. Example: schools create social networks (unintended).
What is the core assumption of conflict theory about social organization?

Society is structured by competition over scarce resources. Emphasizes inequality arising from unequal distribution of power and resources.
What is the definition of a symbol in symbolic interactionism?

Anything that meaningfully represents something else to a group. Like flags, words, or gestures with shared meanings.
What is feminist theory primarily concerned with analyzing in society?

Gender inequality and how patriarchy shapes institutions and power. Examines how male dominance structures society.
What is exchange theory in sociology most directly based on?

Social interaction as reciprocal cost–benefit exchanges. Views relationships as transactions where people seek profit.
What is a social dysfunction in the functionalist perspective?

A social pattern that disrupts the stability or functioning of society. Example: discrimination undermines social cohesion and institutional effectiveness.
What is the definition of the looking-glass self (Cooley)?

Self-concept shaped by imagining how others perceive and judge us. We see ourselves through others' eyes like a mirror reflection.
What is the core claim of conflict theory about society?

Society is shaped by competition over scarce resources and power. Groups with more resources dominate those with less.
Which theoretical perspective most directly explains behavior using shared meanings and definitions of situations?

Symbolic interactionism. Focuses on meanings created through social interaction.
What is differential association theory (Sutherland) in one sentence?

Deviance is learned through exposure to deviant norms and behaviors. Sutherland's theory explains that deviant behavior is acquired through intimate associations where definitions favoring deviance predominate.
What is false consciousness in Marxist theory?

Misunderstanding of one's class interests due to dominant ideology. When workers accept capitalism despite it harming their interests.
What is the core idea of conflict theory regarding social order?

Social order reflects domination of resources by powerful groups over others. Sees society as competition for limited resources between groups.
Identify the concept: a mismatch between cultural goals and legitimate means to achieve them.

Strain (anomie). Merton's concept explaining deviance when society promotes unattainable goals.
Which theoretical perspective most directly analyzes social stratification as inequality in power?

Conflict theory. Views inequality as result of power struggles between groups.
Identify the term for unintended positive outcomes of a policy, such as networking from college attendance.

Latent functions. Hidden benefits beyond the stated purpose of institutions.
What is the core idea of conflict theory in sociology?

Society is shaped by competition for scarce resources and power. It posits that social structures arise from conflicts between groups with differing interests and resources.
What does the term "proletariat" refer to in Marxist conflict theory?

The working class that sells labor for wages. Marx predicted they would eventually overthrow the bourgeoisie.
What is the definition of the Thomas theorem in symbolic interactionism?

If situations are defined as real, they are real in their consequences. Perceptions shape actual outcomes and behaviors.
What is the core focus of symbolic interactionism in sociological analysis?

How individuals create meaning through symbols and social interaction. Examines micro-level processes of communication and interpretation.
What is the looking-glass self in symbolic interactionism?

Self-concept shaped by perceptions of how others view and judge us. Cooley's concept: we imagine how we appear to others and react accordingly.
Which adaptation accepts cultural goals and legitimate means in Merton strain theory?

Conformity. Individuals conform by pursuing approved goals through socially acceptable channels, aligning with societal norms.
Identify the concept: tension from competing demands of multiple roles held at the same time.

Role conflict. Example: being both student and employee with conflicting time demands.
What is the core claim of conflict theory about the source of social change?

Change arises from competition and conflict over scarce resources. Groups compete for limited power, wealth, and status.
What is the definition of the Thomas theorem?

If situations are defined as real, they are real in consequences. Beliefs about reality shape actual behaviors and outcomes.
What is social solidarity in Durkheim's theory?

Social cohesion based on shared norms and integration. Bonds that unite members through collective conscience.
What does symbolic interactionism emphasize as the basis of social reality?

Shared meanings created through social interaction. People construct reality through symbols and interpretation.
What is a manifest function of a social institution?

An intended and recognized consequence of an institution. Explicitly stated purposes that institutions fulfill.
Identify the concept: people are labeled deviant and treated accordingly.

Labeling theory. Social labels shape identity and behavior.
What is "impression management" in Goffman's dramaturgical approach?

Efforts to control how others perceive one in social settings. Like actors, we manage our presentation to audiences.
What is the "generalized other" in Mead's theory of the self?

Internalized expectations of society that guide behavior. Represents society's collective attitudes we consider.
What is the core focus of symbolic interactionism in studying social life?

How people create meaning through symbols in social interaction. Studies micro-level interactions and shared symbols.
What is the proletariat in Marxist class theory?

Wage laborers who sell labor and do not own the means of production. Marx's term for the working class exploited under capitalism.
What is the term for the wage-laboring class in Marxist conflict theory?

Proletariat. Workers who sell their labor to survive in capitalism.
Identify the perspective: a study explains schooling as reproducing class inequality and elite power.

Conflict theory. Emphasis on power and inequality indicates conflict lens.
What does the term bourgeoisie refer to in Marxist theory?

Owners of the means of production. Marx's term for the capitalist class controlling economic resources.
What is the definition of role-taking in symbolic interactionism?

Adopting another person's perspective to guide one's behavior. Understanding situations from others' viewpoints.
What is Weber's main contribution to stratification theory beyond class?

Stratification also reflects status (prestige) and party (power). Added social honor and political influence to class analysis.
What is impression management in Goffman's dramaturgical approach?

Strategic control of behavior to influence others' perceptions. Like actors on stage, we perform roles for our social audience.
What is a latent function of a social institution?

An unintended and often unrecognized consequence of an institution. Example: schools create social networks, though not their stated purpose.
Which adaptation accepts cultural goals but rejects legitimate means in Merton strain theory?

Innovation. Innovation occurs when people seek success but use unconventional or deviant methods due to structural barriers.
What is the manifest function of a social institution or practice?

Its intended and recognized function. In functionalism, manifest functions are the explicit purposes that contribute to social stability and are acknowledged by participants.
What term in functionalism describes the intended, recognized consequence of a social institution?

Manifest function. Explicit purposes that people recognize and expect.
What does the term "bourgeoisie" refer to in Marxist conflict theory?

The capitalist class that owns the means of production. Marx argued they exploit workers by extracting surplus value from labor.
What is a manifest function of a social institution?

An intended and recognized consequence of an institution. Example: schools' manifest function is education, not social networking.
What is anomie in Durkheim's framework?

Normlessness from weak social regulation, often during rapid change. Occurs when traditional rules break down, leaving people directionless.
Identify the theoretical perspective: "Schools sort students to fill needed social roles."

Structural functionalism. Views education as serving society's functional needs.
What is the definition of the Thomas theorem in symbolic interactionism?

If situations are defined as real, they are real in consequences. Beliefs shape reality because people act on what they believe.
What does conflict theory emphasize as the main driver of social change and social order?

Competition over scarce resources and power between groups. Views society as groups competing for limited resources.
What is the difference between mechanical and organic solidarity?

Mechanical: similarity; Organic: interdependence via division of labor. Traditional vs modern forms of social unity.
What is the definition of role-taking in Mead's theory of the self?

Adopting another person's perspective to guide one's own behavior. Understanding others' viewpoints shapes social action.
What does feminist theory primarily emphasize when analyzing social life?

Gender inequality and patriarchy as central organizing social forces. Examines how male dominance structures society.
What is the core assumption of symbolic interactionism about social reality?

Social reality is constructed through shared meanings in interaction. People create meaning through symbols and interactions.
Which perspective most directly emphasizes social stability and equilibrium?

Structural functionalism. It analyzes society at a macro level, emphasizing how institutions function to promote cohesion and balance.
Which theoretical perspective best fits this claim: "Laws reflect the interests of the powerful"?

Conflict theory. Laws protect elite interests, not equal justice for all.
Which perspective best fits this claim: inequality persists because it benefits those with power?

Conflict theory. Focuses on how dominant groups maintain advantage through social structures.
Which concept is being described: unintended benefit of a policy that also reduces crime while targeting education?

Latent function. Unintended positive outcome of a social structure.
Identify the perspective: a study examines how a hospital maintains social order and stability.

Structural functionalism. Focus on stability shows functionalist approach.
What is the central focus of symbolic interactionism in sociology?

Meaning is constructed through social interaction using symbols. Focuses on how people create shared meanings through everyday interactions.
What is the "definition of the situation" concept in symbolic interactionism?

People act based on the meaning they assign to a situation. W.I. Thomas's concept that perception shapes action.
What is the central claim of structural functionalism about how society is organized?

Society is a system of interdependent parts that maintain stability. Each part serves a function to maintain social equilibrium.
What is feminism as a sociological theoretical perspective primarily concerned with?

Gender inequality and patriarchal power structures. Analyzes how male dominance shapes social structures.
What is the main focus of critical race theory as used in sociology?

How racism is embedded in laws, institutions, and social structures. Analyzes systemic racism beyond individual prejudice.
Which adaptation rejects cultural goals but accepts legitimate means in Merton strain theory?

Ritualism. Ritualists abandon ambitious goals to avoid failure but adhere rigidly to routines and rules for security.
What is the central idea of symbolic interactionism?

Social reality is constructed through shared meanings in interaction. Meanings arise from social interactions and symbols.
What is a manifest function in structural functionalism?

An intended and recognized consequence of a social institution. Like education's intended goal of teaching skills.
What does the Thomas theorem state about situations people define as real?

Defined-as-real situations become real in their consequences. Beliefs shape behavior, creating self-fulfilling prophecies.
What is dramaturgical theory (Goffman) primarily used to explain?

Social interaction as performance with impression management. Views social life as theatrical performances with roles.
What is the focus of symbolic interactionism in explaining social life?

Meaning-making through social interaction and shared symbols. Examines how people create reality through everyday interactions.
What term in functionalism describes an unintended, often unrecognized consequence of an institution?

Latent function. Hidden effects that occur without conscious planning.
What is the central assumption of functionalism about social institutions?

Institutions exist because they serve functions that maintain social stability. Views society as interconnected parts working together for equilibrium.
What is organic solidarity?

Cohesion from interdependence due to division of labor. Modern societies unite through specialized roles and mutual dependence.
What is role-taking in Mead's theory of the self?

Adopting another person's perspective to guide one's behavior. Understanding social expectations by imagining others' viewpoints.
Identify the theoretical perspective: social order is produced by micro-level meaning-making.

Symbolic interactionism. Focuses on face-to-face interactions and meanings.
In dramaturgical theory, what is the "front stage"?

Public performance where individuals manage impressions for an audience. Goffman's metaphor for social interaction as theater.
What is the Marxist concept of class consciousness?

Awareness of shared class interests and exploitation. Recognition that leads to collective action against oppression.
What is the "looking-glass self" according to Cooley?

Self-concept formed by imagining others' perceptions and judgments. We see ourselves through how we think others see us.
What is cultural capital in Bourdieu's theory?

Nonfinancial assets (skills, tastes, credentials) that confer status. Knowledge and behaviors that signal social class membership.
What is the core assumption of conflict theory about social structure?

Society is shaped by competition over scarce resources and power. Groups with power maintain dominance over those without.
What is a manifest function in structural functionalism?

An intended and recognized function of a social institution. Explicitly stated purposes that institutions are designed to fulfill.
What does intersectionality specifically claim about social disadvantage?

Multiple identities combine to shape unique oppression/privilege. Race, class, gender, etc. interact to create distinct experiences.
Which perspective most directly explains how labels can create deviant identities?

Symbolic interactionism. Focuses on how meanings attached to behaviors shape identity formation.
What is latent function in a structural functionalist analysis?

An unintended and unrecognized consequence of an institution. Hidden benefits that occur without being planned or noticed.
What is social solidarity in Durkheimian theory?

Social cohesion produced by shared norms, values, and bonds. Durkheim's concept of how societies maintain unity and coherence.
Which theoretical perspective most directly emphasizes micro-level interaction?

Symbolic interactionism. Focuses on face-to-face interactions and meanings.
Which adaptation replaces cultural goals and means with new ones in Merton strain theory?

Rebellion. Rebels challenge the existing system by advocating for alternative goals and means to restructure society.
Which perspective most directly emphasizes inequality, domination, and power?

Conflict theory. This macro theory examines how social inequalities and power dynamics drive change and maintain hierarchies.
What is the definition of the Thomas theorem?

If situations are defined as real, they are real in consequences. People act based on their subjective interpretations.
In Mead's theory, what is the "me" component of the self?

The internalized social expectations and norms. The socialized self that conforms to social rules.
What is the core assumption of functionalism about society?

Society is a system of interdependent parts promoting stability. Each part serves a function maintaining equilibrium.
What is the concept of power in Weber's sociology?

The ability to impose one's will despite resistance. Weber defined it as overcoming opposition to achieve desired outcomes.
What is cultural hegemony in conflict theory?

Dominant groups maintain power by shaping cultural norms and ideology. Gramsci's concept of ideological control without force.

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