Unit 1: Introduction to Sociology Review

Flashcards covering core concepts, sociological theories, the rethink cycle, and types of social norms from the Unit 1 Introduction to Sociology notes.

What is micro-level sociology?

The study of small, face-to-face interactions in order to understand how they affect society.

What is macro-level sociology?

The study of large-scale structures that are often remote from individuals but still affect them.

What is the sociological imagination?

A person's behavior and experiences in relation to the wider culture that shapes an individual.

How is culture defined in sociology?

Shared practices, values, and beliefs produced by society or social structures.

What are contemporary social issues studied by sociologists according to the review sheet?

"stop and Frisk", social media communications, and new political factions.

What is the Overconfidence Cycle?

Believing we know more than we actually do.

What is the Rethinking Cycle?

Being willing to revise beliefs when presented with new evidence.

According to Rethinking, what is a Challenge Network?

Individuals that we trust to activate rethinking cycles, point out our blind spots, doubt our knowledge, and be curious about new perspectives to make us humble.

What is Structural-Functional Theory?

A theory that sees society as a structure with interrelated parts designed to meet the biological and social needs of an individual.

What are three examples of social institutions?

Government, education, and family.

What are a few criticisms of structural functionalism?

It struggles to explain repeated behavior and social change when a structure no longer serves a useful purpose.

What is a manifest function?

An obvious (manifest) good outcome or positive consequence of an action.

What is a latent function?

A hidden or not obvious (latent) unintended good outcome (function) that helps society to run smoothly.

What is a latent dysfunction?

A hidden or not obvious (latent) bad outcome (dysfunction) that produces negative consequences for the system.

What is Conflict Theory?

A theory viewing society as a competitive system where powerful, wealthy social classes have a powerful advantage and may abuse it.

What is a criticism of conflict theory?

It focuses on conflict over stability.

What is Symbolic Interactionist Theory?

A micro-level theory based on relationships between individuals within a society.

What is a criticism of Symbolic Interactionist Theory?

It is difficult to remain objective and constant.

Which theory is for optimists, and which is for pessimists?

Functionalism is for optimists, while Conflict Theory is for pessimists.

What are norms?

Moral rules that are common or expected by a group or society.

What is a folkway?

Everyday norms that are not very serious (friendly rules).

What is a more?

Norms that are considered very important to society, where breaking one causes disapproval.

What is a taboo?

Prohibited behaviors where breaking them results in harsh punishment.

What is a formal sanction?

Official penalties or enforced laws.

What is an informal sanction?

Unwritten reactions from everyday social groups.

What is the difference between a value and a norm?

A value is a belief about what is good or important in a society (such as honesty), whereas a norm is an expectation for behavior.