EXAM 1

Sociological imagination

The ability to see the connection between individual lives and broader social structures.

Micro-sociology

Focuses on small-scale interactions among individuals.

Macro-sociology

Examines large-scale social processes and structure.

Institutional level of analysis

Analyzes the impact of institutions on social interactions and relationships.

Scientific study of sociology

A systematic and objective study of social facts, actions, and patterns.

Confirmation bias

The tendency to interpret new evidence as confirmation of one's existing beliefs or theories.

Social facts

Elements in society that influence individual behavior and societal norms.

Bureaucracy

An organizational structure characterized by formal rules and regulations.

Anomie

A state of normlessness, where social norms are confused or absent.

Cultural assimilation

The process by which a minority group gradually adopts the customs and values of the dominant culture.

Cultural pluralism

When different cultures coexist and are recognized as legitimate and valuable.

Alienation

A condition where individuals feel disconnected from their work, society, or each other.

Symbolic interactionism

A sociological perspective focusing on the meanings and interpretations individuals give to social symbols and interactions.

Durkheim's mechanical solidarity

Social cohesion based on shared traditions and beliefs in a society.

Durkheim's organic solidarity

Social cohesion based on the interdependence of specialized roles in a society.

Marx's class struggle

The conflict between different classes in society, particularly between the bourgeoisie and proletariat.

Weber's rationalization

The process of making social relationships and institutions more organized and predictable.

Educational impact on poverty

Education can significantly influence and reduce poverty levels in society.

Socialization

The lifelong process through which individuals learn and adapt to the norms and values of society.

Feral children

Individuals who have had little or no human contact and have not learned the social norms of society.

Agents of socialization

Entities that influence personal attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, such as family, peers, and media.

Peer pressure

Influence exerted by a peer group encouraging certain behaviors or attitudes.

Nature vs. nurture

The debate regarding the relative importance of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) in human development.

Looking Glass Self Theory

A concept by Charles Cooley that suggests self-identity is formed through social interactions and reflections.

Role conflict

The stress or conflict experienced when an individual faces competing demands from different roles.

Reference group

A group that individuals look to for guidance in forming attitudes or behaviors.

In-group vs Out-group

In-group refers to groups with which an individual identifies; out-group refers to those they do not identify with.

Hegemony

The dominance of one group over others, often established through ideological means.

Cultural imperialism

The imposition of one culture over another, often leading to the erosion of local cultures.

Sociological perspective

An approach that seeks to understand human behavior in the context of societal influences.

Social institutions

Established patterns of social behavior organized around particular purposes, such as family, education, and economy.

Critical race theory

An intellectual movement and framework that examines the relationship between race, law, and power.