Understanding Culture, Society and Politics Review

Flashcards covering authority, economic systems, exchange, scarcity, and education.

Traditional Authority

Based on customs, long-standing practices, and inherited roles; common in monarchies and tribal leadership systems.

Charismatic Authority

Based on the personal qualities, charm, or heroic leadership of an individual; followers obey out of admiration or emotional commitment.

Legal-Rational Authority

Founded on a system of rules and laws that are formally enacted; authority is exercised by officials in positions defined by legal frameworks.

Scarcity

The basic economic problem: resources are limited while human wants are unlimited, which forces individuals and societies to make choices and prioritize needs.

Capitalism

Based on private ownership and profit-driven markets with little government intervention; supply and demand guide production and prices.

Socialism

Aims for social and economic equality; the community or state owns and controls major industries and resources.

Communism

A more extreme form of socialism where the government controls all property and production, and no private ownership exists.

Welfare Capitalism

A blend of capitalism with social welfare programs where private businesses provide benefits such as healthcare, pensions, and education.

State Capitalism

The state plays a major role in directing the economy and may own key industries; private enterprises may exist but are heavily regulated by the government.

Generalized Reciprocity

Exchange of goods or services without expecting an immediate or specific return; common in families or close-knit communities.

Balanced Reciprocity

Exchange where the value of goods or services given is roughly equal and returned within a certain time frame; common in gift exchanges or mutual aid among peers.

Market Exchange

Goods and services are traded for money based on supply and demand, occurring in formal marketplaces or business transactions.

Redistribution

A central authority collects goods and redistributes them among the population; common in state-run economies and some traditional societies.

Formal Education

Structured, classroom-based learning with certified teachers and official curriculum; examples include high school and universities.

Non-Formal Education

Organized learning outside the formal system, often flexible and practical; examples include community literacy programs and livelihood workshops.

Informal Education

Learning gained through daily experiences and interactions; examples include watching educational videos and learning from elders.

Manifest Functions of Education

Intended and recognized outcomes, such as learning literacy, numeracy, and job skills.

Latent Functions of Education

Unintended or hidden outcomes, such as forming social networks or finding a spouse.

Social Integration (Education)

Education unites diverse groups by promoting shared values and national identity.

Transmission of Culture (Education)

Education passes down societal beliefs, values, customs, and traditions.

Social Control (Education)

Schools reinforce discipline, order, and conformity to societal norms.

Credentialism

Emphasis on academic degrees or certificates as prerequisites for employment, regardless of actual job skills.

Education as a Human Right

Ensures equal opportunity and personal development. A strong education system supports democracy, economic growth and social progress

Addressing Inequality

Conflict theory argues that education can reinforce social inequalities.

Political and Social Integration

Education encourages civic responsibility, unity, and democratic participation

Max Weber

a German sociologist, identified 3 main type of legitimate authority