Social Inequality: Causes, Consequences, and Intersectional Analysis

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a key element of the functionalist perspective on social inequality, according to which social order is maintained through consensus and shared values?

Accepted Answer

Recognition of social mobility as a means to address inequality

Answer

Shared agreement on societal values and norms

Answer

Belief that inequality benefits society

Answer

Existence of specialized institutions fulfilling societal functions

Question 2

Which concept is NOT central to the conflict perspective on social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Consensus

Answer

Power

Answer

Exploitation

Answer

Social stratification

Question 3

According to the definition provided, which of the following is NOT a dimension of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Geographical inequality

Answer

Economic inequality

Answer

Racial inequality

Answer

Political inequality

Question 4

Which critique of the functionalist theory of social inequality highlights its neglect of societal conflict?

Accepted Answer

Overemphasis on societal harmony and underestimation of conflict

Answer

Assumption of equal opportunities for all

Answer

Disregard for the experiences of disadvantaged groups

Answer

Applicability only to small communities

Question 5

Which of the following is a primary dimension of social inequality, referring to the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities in a society?

Accepted Answer

Economic inequality

Answer

Social inequality

Answer

Political inequality

Answer

Geographical inequality

Question 6

According to the conflict perspective, which assumption is central to understanding social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Society consists of groups with conflicting interests.

Answer

Inequality benefits society by driving achievement.

Answer

Inequality results from factors beyond human influence.

Answer

Social change happens through gradual consensus.

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a major sociological perspective on social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Postmodern Perspective

Answer

Functionalist Perspective

Answer

Conflict Perspective

Answer

Symbolic Interactionist Perspective

Question 8

Which concept describes a hierarchical system where social status and resources are distributed unequally?

Accepted Answer

Class structure

Answer

Social mobility

Answer

Economic inequality

Answer

Political inequality

Question 9

Which theoretical perspective is NOT commonly used to analyze social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Rational choice perspective

Answer

Functionalist perspective

Answer

Conflict perspective

Answer

Symbolic interactionist perspective

Question 10

According to the functionalist perspective, social inequality is:

Accepted Answer

Essential for society to function smoothly.

Answer

A result of individual effort and merit.

Answer

Unavoidable in all human societies.

Answer

Advantageous to everyone in society.

Question 11

Which theoretical perspective is not commonly used to analyze social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Rational Choice Theory

Answer

Functionalist Perspective

Answer

Conflict Perspective

Answer

Symbolic Interactionist Perspective

Question 12

Which sociological perspective emphasizes that power dynamics and class conflicts are key factors in shaping social stratification?

Accepted Answer

Conflict perspective

Answer

Structural functionalism

Answer

Symbolic interactionism

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a major theoretical perspective on social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Postmodern perspective

Answer

Functionalist perspective

Answer

Conflict perspective

Answer

Symbolic interactionist perspective

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a key dimension of social inequality, as defined in this unit?

Accepted Answer

Social mobility

Answer

Economic inequality

Answer

Political inequality

Answer

Cultural inequality

Question 15

How does an intersectional approach to social inequality help us better understand its causes and effects?

Accepted Answer

It shows how different types of inequality, like race, gender, and class, overlap and combine to create unique experiences of inequality.

Answer

It implies that all forms of inequality are equally significant and should be addressed separately.

Answer

It downplays the role of individual factors in shaping experiences of inequality.

Answer

It's a new concept that hasn't gained widespread acceptance in sociology.

Question 16

In Karl Marx's theory, what is the primary structural factor that leads to social inequality in capitalist societies?

Accepted Answer

Unequal distribution of property and wealth

Answer

Differences in individual abilities and talents

Answer

Discrimination based on social categories

Answer

Inadequate government social welfare programs

Question 17

In the functionalist perspective, what is the main purpose of social inequality in society?

Accepted Answer

To foster social unity and stability.

Answer

To suppress specific social groups and maintain their dominance.

Answer

To motivate individuals to excel and contribute to society.

Answer

To establish a merit-based society where individuals are rewarded according to their abilities.

Question 18

Which principle of social justice advocates for equal opportunities for all, irrespective of their background?

Accepted Answer

Equal opportunities for all

Answer

Unrestricted merit-based rewards

Answer

Minimal government interference in economic matters

Answer

Wealth redistribution limited to the most impoverished

Question 19

Which defining characteristic distinguishes economic inequality?

Accepted Answer

It involves the uneven distribution of income, wealth, and access to resources.

Answer

It solely arises from personal effort and merit.

Answer

It has no significant impact on an individual's overall well-being or life opportunities.

Answer

It is an essential factor in driving economic growth and innovation.

Question 20

In the context of social inequality, what is a key aspect of social cohesion?

Accepted Answer

High levels of trust, cooperation, and shared identity within a society

Answer

Strict adherence to traditional values and norms

Answer

Limited government involvement in social and economic matters

Answer

Low socioeconomic diversity within a society

Question 21

Which sociological theory suggests that society operates as a harmonious system where each part contributes to its stability and balance?

Accepted Answer

Functionalist Theory

Answer

Feminist Theory

Answer

Conflict Theory

Answer

Symbolic Interactionism

Question 22

Which cultural factor is a primary contributor to the ongoing existence of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

The belief that certain population groups are inherently superior.

Answer

Cultural norms that prioritize equality and social justice.

Answer

Limited access to education and resources for specific marginalized groups.

Question 23

Which statement best reflects the conflict perspective on social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Inequality results from conflicts between groups over resources and power.

Answer

Inequality is a natural part of society and helps maintain stability.

Answer

Inequality is mainly caused by individual choices and actions.

Question 24

Which of the following best describes Max Weber's key contribution to the study of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Social stratification is based on class, status, and power.

Answer

Economic factors are the primary determinant of social inequality.

Answer

Inequality is an inevitable part of society.

Answer

Weber's work had little impact on subsequent sociological research.

Question 25

In Karl Marx's Conflict Perspective, what is the primary factor that determines an individual's social position and drives social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Economic factors (ownership of capital and means of production)

Answer

Cultural factors (values, beliefs, and norms)

Answer

Political factors (power structures and government policies)

Answer

Psychological factors (individual motivations and aspirations)

Question 26

In the pursuit of social justice, which strategy is deemed ineffective?

Accepted Answer

Perpetuating stereotypes and biases against specific groups based on their identities

Answer

Expanding educational and job training opportunities for marginalized groups

Answer

Enacting progressive taxation to address economic disparities

Question 27

According to the unit's theoretical perspectives, which of the following is not a primary dimension of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Psychological inequality

Answer

Economic inequality

Answer

Social inequality

Answer

Political inequality

Question 28

Which of the following are widely recognized sources of power within a society?

Accepted Answer

Economic resources

Accepted Answer

Political connections

Accepted Answer

Cultural authority

Answer

Personal attractiveness

Question 29

Which concept is unrelated to the study of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Social harmony

Answer

Social stratification

Answer

Social mobility

Answer

Intersectionality

Question 30

According to the structuralist perspective, what is a key feature of class structure?

Accepted Answer

Class structure is a hierarchical system that assigns individuals to different positions based on their relationship to the means of production.

Answer

Class positions are solely determined by individual merit and effort.

Answer

Class boundaries are flexible and easily crossed by individuals.

Answer

Class relationships are primarily defined by cultural norms and values.

Question 31

Which core principle of social justice emphasizes the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities?

Accepted Answer

Fair and equal access to resources and opportunities

Answer

Economic equality

Answer

Elimination of all forms of discrimination

Answer

Guaranteed minimum income for all citizens

Question 32

How do culture and ideology contribute to the persistence of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Culture and ideology create a false sense of reality, leading people to accept their societal position as unchangeable.

Answer

Culture and ideology have no influence on social inequality.

Answer

Culture and ideology solely challenge social inequality.

Question 33

Which of the following is NOT considered a major form of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Personal inequality

Answer

Economic inequality

Answer

Educational inequality

Answer

Racial inequality

Question 34

Intersectionality theory suggests that different forms of inequality:

Accepted Answer

Can be experienced simultaneously and interact with one another.

Answer

Are mutually exclusive.

Answer

Are always cumulative.

Answer

Are only relevant in specific contexts.

Question 35

Social mobility refers to:

Accepted Answer

The movement of individuals or groups between different social positions.

Answer

The stability of social hierarchies over time.

Answer

The process of societal change that only increases inequality.

Answer

The inability to move between social strata.

Question 36

What is the role of culture in shaping social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Both a and b.

Answer

It can legitimize and reinforce existing inequalities through norms and values.

Answer

It can challenge and disrupt inequality through counter-narratives and social movements.

Answer

It has no significant influence on inequality.

Question 37

The 'relative deprivation' theory suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Individuals compare their situation to others and feel deprived if they fall short.

Answer

Inequality is determined by absolute differences in wealth and income.

Answer

Social inequality is inevitable and natural.

Answer

Education is the key to reducing social inequality.

Question 38

The concept of 'meritocracy' implies that:

Accepted Answer

Social inequality is based on individual abilities and efforts.

Answer

Social inequality is inevitable due to genetic differences.

Answer

Social inequality is a result of discrimination and oppression.

Answer

Social inequality is necessary for societal progress.

Question 39

Which of the following is not a recognized dimension of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Technological inequality

Answer

Racial inequality

Answer

Educational inequality

Answer

Environmental inequality

Question 40

Intersectionality refers to the idea that various forms of social inequality:

Accepted Answer

Can overlap and intersect to create complex forms of disadvantage.

Answer

Are independent and unrelated to each other.

Answer

Are mutually exclusive and cannot coexist.

Answer

Only affect specific individuals or groups.

Question 41

Which theory posits that social inequality is a fair outcome of a competitive system where individuals are rewarded based on their abilities?

Accepted Answer

Functionalist theory

Answer

Conflict theory

Answer

Symbolic interactionist theory

Answer

Feminist theory

Question 42

Which of these theories is NOT commonly used to explain social stratification?

Accepted Answer

Symbolic interactionist theory

Answer

Functionalist theory

Answer

Conflict theory

Answer

Marxist theory

Question 43

How does the concept of 'social closure' contribute to our understanding of the persistence of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Social closure refers to the processes by which powerful groups create and maintain boundaries to exclude others from valued resources and opportunities.

Answer

Social closure suggests that social inequality is an inevitable and unchangeable feature of society.

Answer

Social closure is a concept that applies exclusively to economic inequality.

Answer

Social closure is solely a result of individual actions and choices.

Question 44

Which of the following is a key feature of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

It is persistent and cumulative.

Answer

It is only found in developing countries.

Answer

It is primarily caused by individual factors.

Answer

It has no impact on social cohesion.

Question 45

What is the term for the intersection of multiple forms of inequality, such as gender, race, and class?

Accepted Answer

Intersectional inequality

Answer

Cumulative inequality

Answer

Structural inequality

Answer

Economic inequality

Question 46

Which of the following is NOT a potential solution to addressing social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Reducing taxes for high-income earners

Answer

Increasing access to affordable housing

Answer

Improving educational opportunities for disadvantaged groups

Answer

Enacting policies to prevent discrimination

Question 47

What does the concept of 'relative deprivation' represent in relation to social inequality?

Accepted Answer

The feeling of being disadvantaged compared to others

Answer

The lack of access to essential resources

Answer

The experience of prejudice

Answer

The accumulation of disadvantages

Question 48

What is the term used to describe when individuals experience multiple and intersecting forms of inequality?

Accepted Answer

Intersectionality

Answer

Multidimensional inequality

Answer

Compound inequality

Answer

Cumulative inequality

Question 49

According to the sociological perspective, how is social inequality often viewed?

Accepted Answer

As an inherent part of society with both positive and negative effects

Answer

As a result of individual morality

Answer

As solely a result of discrimination

Answer

As a temporary state that will eventually disappear

Question 50

What is the concept of 'relative deprivation' in relation to social inequality?

Accepted Answer

The perception of being worse off compared to others in one's social group

Answer

The lack of access to basic necessities

Answer

The belief that one is treated unfairly

Answer

The experience of prejudice

Question 51

How do social inequality and environmental injustice interact, creating a cyclical relationship?

Accepted Answer

Social inequality makes certain groups more vulnerable to environmental hazards, while environmental injustice worsens social disparities.

Answer

Social inequality and environmental injustice are completely unrelated.

Answer

Environmental injustice only affects disadvantaged communities, while social inequality affects everyone equally.

Answer

Social inequality is the sole cause of environmental injustice.

Question 52

The concept of intersectionality emphasizes that:

Accepted Answer

Different forms of inequality are interconnected and mutually reinforcing

Answer

Social inequality affects all individuals identically

Answer

Social inequality can be reduced by focusing solely on a single axis of inequality

Answer

Economic inequality is the only form of inequality that matters

Question 53

Social mobility refers to:

Accepted Answer

The movement of individuals between different social classes or strata

Answer

The stability of social class membership over time

Answer

The process by which social inequality is perpetuated

Answer

The extent to which social inequality is due to individual effort and merit

Question 54

The concept of relative deprivation suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Individuals evaluate their well-being in comparison to others

Answer

Social inequality is always experienced as negative

Answer

Deprivation is only a problem when it is absolute and extreme

Answer

Relative deprivation is unrelated to social inequality

Question 55

An example of social stratification is:

Accepted Answer

The hierarchical division of society into different social classes

Answer

The distribution of resources within a society

Answer

The mobility of individuals between social classes

Answer

The subjective experiences of social inequality

Question 56

Which of the following is a criticism of the Gini coefficient as a measure of income inequality?

Accepted Answer

It does not take into account the distribution of wealth.

Answer

It is difficult to understand.

Answer

It only provides a relative measure of inequality.

Answer

It is not affected by extreme values.

Question 57

Which sociological perspective views social inequality as a necessary and functional aspect of society?

Accepted Answer

Functionalism

Answer

Symbolic interactionism

Answer

Marxism

Answer

Feminism

Question 58

Which of the following is a key factor contributing to educational inequality?

Accepted Answer

Lack of access to quality education

Answer

Government spending on education

Answer

Genetics

Answer

Student motivation

Question 59

What is the term for the intersection of multiple forms of discrimination and oppression?

Accepted Answer

Intersectionality

Answer

Oppression

Answer

Prejudice

Answer

Discrimination

Question 60

What is the name of the theory that suggests that social inequality is caused by differences in individual abilities and effort?

Accepted Answer

Meritocracy

Answer

Conflict theory

Answer

Functionalism

Answer

Social Darwinism

Question 61

Which measure of inequality shows the distribution of wealth in a society?

Accepted Answer

Lorenz curve

Answer

Gini coefficient

Answer

Gross Domestic Product

Answer

Human Development Index

Question 62

What is the term for the process by which individuals or groups move up or down the social hierarchy?

Accepted Answer

Social mobility

Answer

Social differentiation

Answer

Social inequality

Answer

Social stratification

Question 63

Which government policy is designed to reduce income inequality?

Accepted Answer

Progressive taxation

Answer

Regressive taxation

Answer

Flat tax

Answer

Tax loopholes

Question 64

Which of the following is NOT a primary dimension of social inequality?

Accepted Answer

Age

Answer

Gender

Answer

Income

Answer

Race