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Sociological Paradigms of Inequality

This topic covers the three main sociological paradigms—structural functionalism, social conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism—that explain the origins and persistence of social inequality. Structural functionalism views stratification as beneficial for societal function, social conflict theory emphasizes class struggles as a driver of inequality, and symbolic interactionism delves into how social class influences individual behaviors and perceptions. Understanding these frameworks is crucial for analyzing how and why inequality persists in various societies, as they offer diverse perspectives on social stratification.

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1

According to functionalist theory, which of the following best explains the existence of social inequality?

Functionalist theory says that social inequality helps keep society stable. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that only personal ...

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2

How does symbolic interactionism help in understanding the experiences of individuals affected by systemic discrimination?

This approach looks at how people interact and create meaning in their lives. Other options are incorrect because Some might think this view looks at ...

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3

Which of the following best describes the relationship between class inequality and economic disparities in a society?

Class inequality and economic disparities are connected. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that money and class don't affect each...

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4

How do power dynamics within sociological paradigms explain the persistence of gender inequality in contemporary society, particularly in relation to social justice movements?

Power structures in society often keep gender inequality alive. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that if someone struggles, it's...

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5

How does symbolic interactionism contribute to our understanding of institutional racism within the framework of intersectionality in sociology?

Symbolic interactionism focuses on how people interact and create meaning. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests that personal iden...

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6

According to functionalist theory, which of the following best explains the existence of social inequality?

Functionalist theory says that social inequality helps keep society organized. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests that only pers...

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7

According to Conflict Theory, which of the following is a primary source of social inequality?

Conflict Theory says that social inequality comes from the struggle for resources. Other options are incorrect because Some might think education caus...

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8

In the context of symbolic interactionism, how might individuals perceive social inequality in their daily interactions?

People see social inequality based on their own experiences and the way they interact with others. Other options are incorrect because Some might thin...

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9

A factory worker feels that their low wage compared to the CEO's salary is a result of structural inequalities in the workplace. Which sociological paradigm best explains their perspective?

This theory looks at how different groups compete for resources. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that every part of society wor...

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10

In the context of sociological paradigms, the theory that views social stratification as necessary for the stability and function of society is called ___.

This theory says that different social classes help keep society balanced. Other options are incorrect because This idea focuses on the struggles betw...

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11

Which of the following statements accurately reflect the perspectives of sociological paradigms on inequality? Select all that apply.

Each statement misrepresents the views of sociological theories on inequality. Other options are incorrect because This idea wrongly suggests that ine...

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12

Which sociological paradigm best explains how social class affects individual behavior and perceptions?

Symbolic interactionism focuses on how people interact and create meaning. Other options are incorrect because Structural functionalism looks at socie...

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13

What underlying cause explains why social inequality persists in society, despite the negative perceptions of those at the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum?

Structural functionalism says that different roles in society help keep things running smoothly. Other options are incorrect because This idea wrongly...

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14

In a contemporary urban setting, a community group is discussing the disparity in income between low-wage workers and high-level executives. They note that while low-wage workers are essential for daily operations, their contributions are often undervalued. Which sociological paradigm best explains the persistence of this income inequality and the community group's perspective on the necessity of low-wage work?

Social conflict theory explains how different social classes fight for power and resources. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that ...

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15

Arrange the sociological paradigms of inequality in the order of their perspective on social stratification, starting from the view that sees it as beneficial for society to the view that emphasizes individual interactions and perceptions.

Structural Functionalism sees inequality as helpful for society. Other options are incorrect because This order suggests conflict is the main view, wh...

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16

How would a structural functionalist explain social inequality in society?

Structural functionalists believe that social inequality helps keep society organized. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests that i...

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17

Structural functionalism : social stability :: social conflict theory : ?

Social conflict theory focuses on the struggles between different groups. Other options are incorrect because Some might think social cohesion means e...

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