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Social Power and Norms

This topic explores the interplay between social power and the definition of social norms, emphasizing how those in positions of authority shape societal rules to protect their interests. Drawing from Karl Marx's perspective, it illustrates how laws can serve to enforce the status quo, as seen in historical examples like fugitive slave laws and contemporary differences in police responses to various forms of political speech. Understanding this dynamic is crucial in sociology as it reveals the underlying structures of inequality and the role of power in defining deviance.

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1

In a social hierarchy, which of the following best describes the distribution of power among individuals or groups?

In a social hierarchy, power is held by a small group of people. Other options are incorrect because Some might think everyone shares power equally; I...

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2

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the impact of social norms on individual behavior?

This example shows how people often follow what others do. Other options are incorrect because This choice suggests that helping others is influenced ...

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3

In the context of social power and norms, which of the following best illustrates the concept of legitimacy in relation to role expectations?

A government makes laws that people are expected to follow. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that teachers giving homework is a go...

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4

In the context of social power dynamics, which of the following scenarios best illustrates the concept of social influence through power inequality?

A politician has power and can influence many people. Other options are incorrect because Some might think teamwork is about power; Grading is about f...

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5

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the concept of resistance to cultural norms through socialization processes?

The teenager chooses a vegan lifestyle, which is different from their family's habits. Other options are incorrect because This option shows a child l...

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6

Which of the following best describes the relationship between social power and norms in a society?

People with social power, like leaders, can shape what behaviors are seen as normal. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that norms...

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7

Which of the following best describes social norms?

Social norms are like the rules we follow without being told. Other options are incorrect because Some might think social norms are laws, but laws are...

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8

Which type of power relies on an individual's ability to influence others through their personal qualities and charisma?

Referent power comes from being liked and admired. Other options are incorrect because Coercive power is about forcing someone to do something through...

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9

A new law is enacted that disproportionately penalizes a specific group for a behavior considered acceptable for others. Based on the concepts of social power and norms, how would you classify this law?

This law helps those in power by treating one group unfairly. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests the law makes things equal; Thi...

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10

In the context of social norms and power, Karl Marx argued that the law serves primarily to protect the interests of the powerful elite, which can be seen through examples like the fugitive slave laws and societal responses to political speech. This concept highlights the relationship between social power and the definition of __________.

Deviance means behavior that goes against social norms. Other options are incorrect because Conformity means following social norms; Social mobility i...

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11

Social norms are to societal behavior as laws are to what?

Social norms guide how people act in society. Other options are incorrect because Some might think laws only affect personal decisions; It's easy to c...

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12

A local government is considering a new ordinance that would impose stricter regulations on public protests, citing the need for public safety. However, historical data shows that these regulations disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Which principle of social power and norms best explains the potential motivation behind this ordinance?

The powerful people in society often create laws to keep their control. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that everyone agrees on...

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13

Which of the following statements accurately reflect the relationship between social power and social norms as discussed in the context of sociology?

Each statement misunderstands how social power and norms interact. Other options are incorrect because This suggests norms are always made by everyone...

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14

How does social power influence the definition of social norms according to Marxist theory?

In Marxist theory, those with social power, like the wealthy, can create rules that help them. Other options are incorrect because This suggests every...

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15

How does social power influence the definition of social norms according to Marxian theory?

Social power shapes what society sees as normal or deviant. Other options are incorrect because Not all norms are accepted by everyone; Social norms d...

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16

How do social norms often reflect the interests of those in power?

Powerful people shape social norms to keep their advantages. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that norms help everyone equally; ...

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17

Order the following steps that illustrate how social power shapes social norms according to Marx's perspective: A) Powerful elites create laws that reflect their interests, B) These laws reinforce existing social norms, C) Society internalizes these norms, D) Deviance is defined based on compliance with these norms.

Powerful groups make rules that help them. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that society accepts norms before laws are made; T...

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