Lecture 2: Check for Understanding

1. Which theoretical perspective views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability?

a) Conflict Theory b) Symbolic Interactionism c) Functionalism d) Dramaturgy

2. The "looking-glass self" concept, developed by Charles Horton Cooley, suggests that our sense of self is shaped by:

a) Our genetic makeup b) How we imagine others see us c) Our economic status d) Our political beliefs

3. A sociologist studying how the educational system perpetuates inequality by providing more resources to wealthy students is most likely using which perspective?

a) Functionalism b) Conflict Theory c) Symbolic Interactionism d) Strain Theory

4. A micro-level theory, such as symbolic interactionism, would be best suited to study which of the following?

a) The impact of globalization on national economies. b) The ways people create shared meaning during a conversation. c) The causes of social revolutions. d) The role of government in social welfare.

5. Erving Goffman's concept of "dramaturgy" compares social life to:

a) A biological organism b) A computer program c) A theatrical performance d) A competitive sport

6. Which of the following is NOT a core assumption of conflict theory?

a) Society is characterized by power imbalances. b) Social arrangements benefit some groups at the expense of others. c) Society is a system of interrelated parts that work together for social stability. d) Change is the result of conflict and struggle.

7. Labeling theory is a micro-level theory of deviance that argues:

a) Deviance is a result of a strain between goals and means. b) Deviance is the result of how others interpret and label a person's behavior. c) Deviance is a genetic trait. d) Deviance is a conscious choice to break rules.

8. The "generalized other," a concept by George Herbert Mead, refers to:

a) A specific person we admire. b) Our internalized understanding of the attitudes and expectations of society. c) A famous sociologist. d) Our immediate family members.

9. A functionalist would view the family as:

a) A source of conflict and power struggles. b) A social institution that serves the function of socializing children and providing emotional support. c) A product of individual interactions and created meanings. d) An outdated and unnecessary institution.

10. What is the primary purpose of sociological theory?

a) To provide a set of beliefs to live by. b) To offer a conceptual framework for explaining social patterns. c) To prove that one theorist is correct. d) To create complex jargon.