Sociology – Final Exam Study Guide

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts in sociology, aimed at aiding students in reviewing for their final exam.

The social process through which groups make collective decisions and allocate resources.

What is the definition of politics in sociology?

The ability to achieve desired outcomes, influence others, or control resources, even in the face of resistance.

What is power in the sociological context?

Power regarded as rightful or appropriate by those subjected to it.

What does legitimate authority refer to?

Max Weber.

Who developed the three types of legitimate authority?

Traditional, charismatic, and legal-rational authority.

What are the three ideal types of legitimate authority according to Weber?

Authority rooted in longstanding customs and inherited status.

Define traditional authority.

Influence that rests on perceived extraordinary qualities; followers’ devotion is personal and emotional.

What is charismatic authority?

It depends on the leader’s personal appeal and often routinizes into traditional or legal-rational forms after the leader leaves.

Why is charismatic authority considered unstable?

A political system in which a single ruler (king or queen) holds power, often inherited.

What is a monarchy?

A political system where power is derived from the people directly or via elected representatives.

Define democracy.

Shared meanings, values, norms, language, symbols, and practices that shape behavior and social life.

What is culture in sociology?

Culture/social environment strongly shapes behavior and identity, while biology refers to genetic/physiological factors.

How do culture and biology differ in sociology?

The perspective that many 'realities' are created and maintained through social interaction and shared meanings.

What is social constructivism?

Capitalism and socialism/command-based systems.

What are the two primary economic systems?

To increase productivity and wealth through division of labor and free markets.

What is the goal of capitalism according to Adam Smith?

A theoretical system advocating collective ownership of the means of production and a classless society.

Define communism.

The principle that jobs requiring similar skill/effort/responsibility should be paid similarly, regardless of gender composition.

What is the principle of comparable worth?

A hierarchy based on income, wealth, education, and occupational prestige, affecting life chances.

What does social stratification refer to?

A socially recognized role for the ill, which includes rights (exemption from duties) and obligations (to seek help and want to recover).

What is the sick role according to Parsons?

What does education in sociology encompass?

A social institution that transmits knowledge, skills, and social norms, and sorts individuals into roles affecting inequality.

What is symbolic interactionism?

A micro perspective focusing on meaning-making through interaction and everyday social processes that shape self and society.

What does the term 'role' indicate in sociology?

Expected behaviors attached to a social status.

What are the four functions of education?

Socialization, social integration, social placement, and social/cultural innovation.

What is de jure segregation?

Segregation enforced by law or policy.

What is the difference between ascribed status and achieved status?

Ascribed status is assigned at birth or involuntarily; achieved status is earned through choices or effort.

What is the basic definition of social aging?

How roles, expectations, and social treatment change as people age, influenced by societal norms.

What is disengagement theory?

The idea that older adults and society mutually withdraw as part of normal aging.

What is the focus of social epidemiology?

How social factors influence patterns of health and disease.

What is meant by 'life expectancy'?

The average number of years a population is expected to live based on current mortality rates.