Question 1

Many people now consider work and production less important than consumption.

Accepted Answer

With the rise of consumer culture, many people do indeed prioritize consumption over work and production.

Question 2

Sociology is one of the humanities, such as history and communication.

Accepted Answer

Sociology is a social science, not a humanities field.

Question 3

Consider the issue of student debt in the current educational environment in the lens of "the sociological imagination." How might you use the sociological imagination to understand different aspects of the increase in student loan debt in the twenty-first century? First, describe what it means to use a sociological imagination; then apply this to the student debt crisis.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Consider the issue of student debt in...

Question 4

An example of mediated interaction would be communicating over the Internet in a chat room.

Accepted Answer

Mediated interaction refers to communication that occurs through a medium or technology, such as the internet or phone. Chat rooms are an example of mediated interaction, as communication is facilitated through a digital platform.

Question 5

Concepts from sociology's early days continue to be applicable and still are applied to social issues by contemporary sociologists.

Accepted Answer

Many of the key concepts and theories from the early days of sociology, such as class conflict, social inequality, and social norms, remain relevant and continue to inform contemporary sociological research on a range of social issues. Additionally, many contemporary sociologists draw on the work of early sociologists like Marx, Durkheim, and Weber to develop new theories and perspectives on social phenomena.

Question 6

Macroanalysis involves focusing on the influence of groups and organizations.

Accepted Answer

Macroanalysis involves examining the broader social structures, organizations, and institutions and their effect on individuals and society as a whole. Therefore, it focuses on the influence of groups and organizations.

Question 7

The social science fields differ from one another, but sociology is the field that gives the broadest possible view of society and its interrelationships.

Accepted Answer

Sociology examines social structures, institutions, and relationships across various scales (from small groups to entire societies), making it the most expansive social science field.

Question 8

Despite the recession, excessive consumption has continued at a steady pace, making it unlikely that we will soon enter a "postconsumption age."

Accepted Answer

The answer of Despite the recession, excessive consumption has continued...

Question 9

Explain the concept of McDonaldization. Why is it called "McDonaldization"? What are the four characteristics that define this process? Describe concretely how each of the four characteristics worked in fast food.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Explain the concept of McDonaldization. Why is...

Question 10

The sociological imagination can help people make the connection between public issues and private troubles.

Accepted Answer

The sociological imagination is a concept developed by C. Wright Mills that allows individuals to connect their personal experiences (private troubles) to larger social and historical forces (public issues). It helps people understand how personal struggles and challenges are influenced by broader societal factors such as culture, politics, and economic systems.

Question 11

Sociologists who engage in pure science believe sociology should be studied in order to change society for the better.

Accepted Answer

Sociologists who engage in pure science believe that sociology should be studied for the advancement of knowledge and understanding, not for the purpose of changing society. They aim to maintain objectivity and neutrality in their research, and leave the application of their findings to policy makers and practitioners.

Question 12

Auguste Comte wrote a book that discusses the dynamics of the power elite.

Accepted Answer

Auguste Comte did not write a book specifically about the power elite. He is known for his contributions to the development of sociology, including his concept of positivism and the establishment of a scientific approach to the study of society. The idea of the power elite was popularized by sociologist C. Wright Mills in his book "The Power Elite."

Question 13

Select one of two social issues-gay marriage or legalization of marijuana. Indicate your selection in your answer. Explain the types of questions a sociologist would ask to explore the micro and macro levels of analysis.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Select one of two social issues-gay marriage...

Question 14

U.S. consumption greatly increased at the end of the twentieth century, but since the recession, there are some indications that we may be entering a postconsumption age. What types of benefits and problems does a postconsumption age raise for U.S. society? Offer at least one specific example of something that would improve or decline as a result of lowered consumption.

Accepted Answer

The answer of U.S. consumption greatly increased at the end...

Question 15

In his text, George Ritzer defines globalization as an increased flow of people, products, and processes around the world. Consider the way that globalization affects your experience of college education. Describe how one product or process has changed the experience of college education for you through the effects of globalization. Give concrete factors describing why the product or process you describe is part of globalization.

Accepted Answer

The answer of In his text, George Ritzer defines globalization...

Question 16

Describe the differences and similarities between the two purposes of sociology: pure science and social reform. Do you believe that sociology should focus more on pure science or social reform? Explain your stance.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Describe the differences and similarities between the...

Question 17

Sociologists do not engage in social reform; the job of the sociologist is only to engage in "pure science" research.

Accepted Answer

While some sociologists may choose to solely focus on "pure science" research, many do engage in social reform efforts and believe that their research should be used to make positive changes in society.

Quiz 1: An Introduction to Sociology in the Global Age