A sociologist observes that individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds tend to prefer genres of music that reflect their struggles and experiences. Which category of the sociological perspective does this observation best illustrate?

This observation best illustrates the sociological perspective known as cultural sociology. Cultural sociology focuses on how people's backgrounds, experiences, and social conditions shape their tastes and preferences, including music. For example, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may relate more to genres like hip-hop or blues, which often express themes of hardship and resilience. This connection happens because music can serve as a reflection of one's life experiences, helping to foster a sense of identity and community. Thus, the preference for certain music genres highlights the influence of social factors on individual choices.