Intro to Sociology – Midterm Exam 1 Study Guide

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts, theories, and terms from the Intro to Sociology course based on midterm exam content.

What is the sociological imagination?

relationships between individual experiences and larger social influences.

Who is known as the father of sociology?

Auguste Comte

Define social institution and give an example.

A social institution is a complex group of interdependent positions that perform a social role and reproduce themselves over time, e.g., education system.

What is double consciousness according to WEB DuBois?

The internal conflict experienced by subordinated groups in an oppressive society, particularly the sense of always looking at oneself through the eyes of others.

How does functionalism differ from conflict theory?

Functionalism views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote stability, while conflict theory views society as composed of groups competing for scarce resources.

What is feminist theory?

A theoretical approach that seeks to understand the nature of gender inequality and the social construction of gender roles.

What is anomie according to Durkheim?

A state of normlessness where society fails to effectively regulate the expectations or behaviors of its members, often linked to rapid social change and increased suicide rates.

Define causality and list its three necessary factors.

Causality refers to a relationship where one event is the result of the occurrence of another event; the three necessary factors are correlation, time order, and ruling out alternative explanations.

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative methods?

Qualitative methods focus on understanding the meaning of social phenomena through interviews or observations, while quantitative methods involve numerical data and statistical analysis.

What are agents of socialization?

Individuals or groups that influence personal attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

Explain the concept of the looking-glass self.

An idea by Charles Horton Cooley that suggests our self-concept is shaped by how we believe others perceive us.

What is role conflict?

Role conflict occurs when an individual holds two or more roles that have contradictory expectations, leading to stress.

Give an example of social cohesion.

Social cohesion refers to the bonds that bring people together in society, e.g., shared values or social norms that foster community.

What does Goffman mean by 'dramaturgy'?

A sociological perspective that compares social interaction to theatrical performance, where individuals present themselves in particular ways to others.

Define and explain institutional isomorphism.

The process by which organizations in the same field adopt similar structures and practices, often due to pressures from outside influences.

What is social deviance?

Behavior that violates societal norms or expectations, which can be categorized as informal or formal deviance.

How does strain theory explain deviant behavior?

Strain theory posits that deviance occurs when individuals cannot achieve culturally approved goals through legitimate means, leading them to pursue alternative paths.

What are moral panics?

Widespread feelings of fear and concern among the public regarding a perceived threat to social norms or values.