Classical Sociological Theory: A Foundation for Understanding Society

Question 1

How did classical sociological theory contribute to the development of social policy and social welfare programs?

Accepted Answer

It provided a framework for understanding social problems and identifying target populations for interventions.

Answer

It had no direct impact on their development.

Answer

It only influenced the development of social welfare programs.

Answer

It hindered their development by promoting individualism and self-reliance.

Question 2

How has classical sociological theory been instrumental in challenging prevailing social structures and ideologies?

Accepted Answer

To critically examine and expose the root causes of social issues and injustices.

Answer

To legitimize and perpetuate existing social inequalities and hierarchies.

Answer

To provide a blueprint for social transformation and revolution.

Answer

To encourage conformity and adherence to societal norms and values.

Question 3

Identify the concept central to Karl Marx's theory of social conflict:

Accepted Answer

Class struggle

Answer

Economic expansion

Answer

Social cohesion

Answer

Religious values

Question 4

According to Max Weber, what is the primary driver behind individuals' actions?

Accepted Answer

Economic rationality

Answer

Cultural beliefs

Answer

Social norms

Answer

Political ideologies

Question 5

Which classical sociologist proposed that religion plays a crucial role in maintaining social order?

Accepted Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Auguste Comte

Question 6

In Pierre Bourdieu's theory, 'habitus' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Internalized dispositions that shape individuals' behavior

Answer

The external resources possessed by individuals

Answer

Symbolic boundaries separating social groups

Answer

Power relations within society

Question 7

Identify a limitation associated with using participant observation in sociological research:

Accepted Answer

It can challenge the researcher's objectivity

Answer

It can be time-consuming and expensive

Answer

It is impractical for studying large groups

Answer

It is unsuitable for exploring sensitive topics

Question 8

Which of the following is not considered a social institution?

Accepted Answer

Photography

Answer

Family

Answer

Religion

Answer

Education

Question 9

Which concept is absent from Karl Marx's theory of social conflict?

Accepted Answer

Social capital

Answer

Class struggle

Answer

Alienation

Answer

False consciousness

Question 10

Emile Durkheim argued that social cohesion arises from:

Accepted Answer

Shared norms and values

Answer

Economic self-interest

Answer

Political coercion

Answer

Religious beliefs

Question 11

How did Marx's concept of alienation from labour influence his critique of capitalism?

Accepted Answer

As a system that dehumanizes workers

Answer

As a system that leads to economic inequality

Answer

As a system that is inherently unstable

Answer

As a system that is destined to collapse

Question 12

Emile Durkheim explained anomie as:

Accepted Answer

A state of social normlessness

Answer

A consequence of rapid social change

Answer

A result of economic deprivation

Answer

A form of mental illness

Question 13

Max Weber's verstehen approach primarily involves:

Accepted Answer

Interpreting social action from the actor's perspective

Answer

Objectively observing social phenomena

Answer

Generalising social patterns using statistical methods

Answer

Analysing historical events to understand social behaviour

Question 14

Which of the following is a primary concept in Karl Marx's theory of capitalism?**

Accepted Answer

Class struggle

Answer

Socialization

Answer

Division of labor

Answer

Rationalization

Question 15

According to Max Weber, which of the following is a characteristic of modern society?

Accepted Answer

Bureaucratization

Answer

Traditionalism

Answer

Charismatic authority

Answer

Feudalism

Question 16

Emile Durkheim argued that:

Accepted Answer

Society is held together by social consensus and shared values.

Answer

Individualism is the foundation of social order.

Answer

Economic interests are the primary force shaping society.

Answer

Political power is the key to understanding social dynamics.

Question 17

Which of the following concepts is central to Karl Marx's theory of alienation?

Accepted Answer

Workers' estrangement from their labor and the products of their labor.

Answer

The commodification of social relations.

Answer

The division of society into distinct social classes.

Answer

The irrationality of the capitalist system.

Question 18

According to Max Weber, what is the role of religion in modern society?

Accepted Answer

It legitimizes social and political authority.

Answer

It provides a source of spiritual guidance and meaning.

Answer

It inhibits economic development and social progress.

Answer

It fosters social solidarity and community cohesion.

Question 19

Which of the following is a key feature of Emile Durkheim's concept of anomie?

Accepted Answer

A state of normlessness and disorientation resulting from rapid social change.

Answer

A condition of social chaos and disorder characterized by widespread lawlessness and violence.

Answer

A high level of crime and deviance due to a breakdown in social control.

Answer

A lack of social solidarity and shared values leading to social isolation and alienation.

Question 20

Which central concept in Karl Marx's theory of capitalism emphasizes the inherent conflict between different social classes?

Accepted Answer

Class struggle

Answer

Economic determinism

Answer

Alienation

Answer

Surplus value

Question 21

Which concept in Émile Durkheim's theory of social solidarity refers to a society characterized by shared values and beliefs?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical solidarity

Answer

Organic solidarity

Answer

Anomie

Answer

Collectivism

Question 22

In Karl Marx's view, how does the economy influence the development of society?

Accepted Answer

The economy is the primary determinant of societal change

Answer

Society's structure and values shape the economy

Answer

The economy and society evolve independently of each other

Answer

The relationship between the economy and society is complex and bidirectional

Question 23

Which fundamental critique of Karl Marx's theory highlights its deterministic nature, arguing that it underestimates human agency and social change?

Accepted Answer

It is deterministic

Answer

It is empirically unverifiable

Answer

It ignores the significance of culture

Answer

It promotes social conflict

Question 24

How did Émile Durkheim define anomie, and what are its potential consequences for society?

Accepted Answer

Anomie is a state of social disorganization and normlessness, leading to increased rates of suicide and crime

Answer

Anomie is a process of social integration, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose

Answer

Anomie is a form of social control, ensuring conformity to social norms

Answer

Anomie is a type of social change, characterized by rapid transformation and upheaval

Question 25

Which concept in Max Weber's theory of social action refers to the subjective interpretation and understanding of social behavior?

Accepted Answer

Verstehen

Answer

Rationalization

Answer

Charisma

Answer

Social stratification

Question 26

According to Karl Marx, how did the relationship between the bourgeoisie and proletariat contribute to the dynamics of capitalist society?

Accepted Answer

The relationship between the two classes was characterized by inherent conflict and exploitation

Answer

The bourgeoisie and proletariat had a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship

Answer

The bourgeoisie and proletariat cooperated to maintain social order

Answer

The relationship was based on a fair and equitable distribution of resources

Question 27

Which of the following is a central concept in Karl Marx's theory of social stratification?

Accepted Answer

Class consciousness

Answer

Status inconsistency

Answer

Social mobility

Answer

Reference group

Question 28

According to Max Weber, the key factor distinguishing different types of social action is:

Accepted Answer

Meaning

Answer

Values

Answer

Interests

Answer

Norms

Question 29

The concept of 'alienation' is primarily associated with the work of which classical sociologist?

Accepted Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Talcott Parsons

Question 30

According to Marx, Weber, and Durkheim, which statement best describes the relationship between power, ideology, and social change?

Accepted Answer

Power and ideology are intertwined, driving social change through class struggle.

Answer

Values and beliefs influence social change, but power dynamics are insignificant.

Answer

Social change is primarily shaped by individual actions and rationality.

Answer

Power, ideology, and social change are unrelated concepts.

Question 31

Emile Durkheim argued that society is held together by a shared sense of:

Accepted Answer

Collective conscience

Answer

Tradition

Answer

Individualism

Answer

Economic self-interest

Question 32

According to Emile Durkheim, anomie is a state of:

Accepted Answer

Normlessness and social disorganization

Answer

Excessive regulation and social control

Answer

Rapid social change and upheaval

Answer

Moral decay and societal decline

Question 33

Which of the following is NOT a type of social control identified by Max Weber?

Accepted Answer

Socialization

Answer

Tradition

Answer

Charisma

Answer

Legal coercion

Question 34

Revised: According to Max Weber, social stratification is primarily based on:

Accepted Answer

Revised: Power

Answer

Revised: Wealth

Answer

Revised: Prestige

Answer

Revised: Education

Question 35

Revised: Which characteristic is not associated with Emile Durkheim's theory of anomie?

Accepted Answer

Revised: Increased social cohesion

Answer

Revised: Social disorganization

Answer

Revised: Moral breakdown

Answer

Revised: Loss of social norms

Question 36

Revised: Identify the predominant criticism of functionalist theories of society:

Accepted Answer

Revised: They overemphasize consensus and neglect conflict

Answer

Revised: They are too deterministic and ignore agency

Answer

Revised: They are based on outdated empirical data

Answer

Revised: They are overly focused on social structures

Question 37

Revised: Which concept is central to conflict theories of society?

Accepted Answer

Revised: Power struggle

Answer

Revised: Social inequality

Answer

Revised: Social change

Answer

Revised: Social solidarity

Question 38

Which concept in Karl Marx's theory of social stratification focuses on the awareness of one's social class?

Accepted Answer

Class consciousness

Answer

Alienation

Answer

Economic base

Answer

Social mobility

Question 39

According to Max Weber, which type of authority is based on the belief that a leader possesses exceptional qualities?

Accepted Answer

Charismatic authority

Answer

Traditional authority

Answer

Rational-legal authority

Answer

Bureaucratic authority

Question 40

Which of Emile Durkheim's contributions to sociology emphasizes the importance of social cohesion and shared norms?

Accepted Answer

Functionalist perspective

Answer

Concept of social structure

Answer

Theory of anomie

Answer

Verstehen

Question 41

Which critique of classical sociological theory highlights its tendency to overlook individual agency and personal experiences?

Accepted Answer

Neglect of agency

Answer

Overemphasis on social order

Answer

Lack of empirical evidence

Answer

Limited applicability to contemporary society

Question 42

According to Emile Durkheim, what is the primary purpose of societal punishment?

Accepted Answer

To express collective disapproval and reinforce social norms

Answer

To deter crime and protect society

Answer

To rehabilitate and reform criminals

Answer

To provide financial compensation to victims

Question 43

Which key strength of classical sociological theory lies in its provision of a conceptual framework for analyzing society?

Accepted Answer

Conceptual framework for understanding society

Answer

Foundation for modern research methods

Answer

Insights into social problems

Answer

Critical perspective on social inequality

Question 44

Which advantage of ethnographic research allows for a comprehensive understanding of social interactions and cultural practices?

Accepted Answer

Provides in-depth understanding of social interactions

Answer

Facilitates cross-cultural comparisons

Answer

Produces generalizable results

Answer

Provides longitudinal data for analysis

Question 45

How do the theories of Marx, Weber, and Durkheim collectively explain the influence of social institutions on individuals?

Accepted Answer

Social institutions shape individual values and norms.

Answer

Social institutions solely drive social change.

Answer

Social institutions exist only in capitalist societies.

Question 46

According to which classical sociologist should social phenomena be studied objectively, employing scientific methods?

Accepted Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Talcott Parsons

Question 47

Karl Marx conceptualized which concept to explain the exploitation of workers within capitalist society?

Accepted Answer

Surplus value

Answer

Alienation

Answer

Commodification

Answer

Ideology

Question 48

Who introduced the concept of 'social fact' in sociology?

Accepted Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Auguste Comte

Answer

Herbert Spencer

Answer

Karl Marx

Question 49

Marx's theory of historical development is centered on the notion of:

Accepted Answer

Class conflict as the primary engine of social change

Answer

Social advancement driven by technological innovation

Answer

The significance of consensus and social order

Answer

The role of religion in shaping society

Question 50

Weber distinguished traditional authority from bureaucratic authority primarily based on:

Accepted Answer

Subordinate obedience based on personal loyalty versus impersonal regulations

Answer

Legitimacy rooted in tradition versus expertise

Answer

Decision-making grounded in consensus versus rational analysis

Answer

Power derived from heredity versus appointment

Question 51

Durkheim's study on suicide demonstrated that:

Accepted Answer

Suicide rates are higher in societies with weak social integration

Answer

Suicide rates are higher in societies with strong social integration

Answer

Social factors do not influence suicide rates

Answer

Suicide rates are higher in societies with high levels of religious faith

Question 52

According to Karl Marx, which factor is the primary driver of social change?

Accepted Answer

Economic relations

Answer

Political ideologies

Answer

Cultural norms

Answer

Technological advancements

Question 53

Who is credited with developing the concept of 'social solidarity'?

Accepted Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Talcott Parsons

Question 54

What is the concept that refers to the degree to which individuals feel connected to and supported by their community?

Accepted Answer

Social cohesion

Answer

Social identity

Answer

Social integration

Answer

Social capital

Question 55

According to Marx's theory, what is the relationship between the capitalist class and the working class?

Accepted Answer

Exploitative

Answer

Cooperative

Answer

Symbiotic

Answer

Neutral

Question 56

Which sociologist used the term 'iron cage' to describe the pervasive influence of bureaucracy?

Accepted Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Talcott Parsons

Question 57

What is the term for the process by which individuals learn the values, beliefs, and behaviors of their culture?

Accepted Answer

Socialization

Answer

Acculturation

Answer

Assimilation

Answer

Education

Question 58

According to Durkheim, what is a primary function of religion in society?

Accepted Answer

To provide social control

Answer

To promote economic growth

Answer

To quell political dissent

Answer

To foster individual spirituality

Question 59

Which sociologist believed that social inequality is an essential and beneficial aspect of society?

Accepted Answer

Herbert Spencer

Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Question 60

Which classical sociologist theorized that society is divided into classes based on their economic status?

Accepted Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Auguste Comte

Question 61

Who developed the concept of 'social solidarity' and argued that shared values and beliefs bind society together?

Accepted Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Herbert Spencer

Answer

Karl Marx

Question 62

Which classical sociologist is renowned for his theory of 'rationalization' and the 'iron cage' of bureaucracy?

Accepted Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Georg Simmel

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Karl Marx

Question 63

Who proposed that societies progress through distinct stages, from religious to scientific thinking?

Accepted Answer

Auguste Comte

Answer

Max Weber

Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Question 64

Which classical theorist argued that social change is driven by the conflict between the forces of production and relations of production?

Accepted Answer

Karl Marx

Answer

Talcott Parsons

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Max Weber