Lecture 9: Check for Understanding

1. Why is phenomenology considered an "unending task"?

a) Because it is impossible to understand anything. b) Because the lifeworld is constantly changing and our perspective is always limited. c) Because researchers want to stay employed. d) Because there are too many people to study.

2. The "phenomenological attitude" is best described as:

a) A state of constant doubt. b) An expert's certainty about social facts. c) A posture of wonder and openness toward the everyday world. d) A dismissive attitude toward traditional science.

3. In the final lecture, the "mystery" of the world is seen as:

a) An invitation to deeper study and engagement. b) A problem that needs to be solved with more data. c) A reason to give up on research. d) Something that can be completely explained by science.

4. The ultimate goal of this course is to help students:

a) Memorize sociological theories. b) Develop a critical and compassionate way of seeing the human world. c) Become expert programmers. d) Win arguments about social issues.

5. Phenomenology reminds us that at the heart of all our data points is:

a) A computer algorithm. b) A statistical average. c) A human being living a life. d) A social structure.