Exam 1: The Sociological Perspective

Anthropology, economics, political science, psychology, and sociology are all appropriately classified as social sciences.

Social life can be interpreted from one of three major theoretical frameworks. Describe the major points of each framework. List at least one sociologist who has been identified with each framework.

According to Max Weber, the "sign" Calvinists looked for as an indication they were saved was their successful investment in capital.

Of the following, which discipline is most appropriately classified as a natural science?

The American sociologist who focused on social analysis, developing abstract models showing how parts of society harmoniously work together, was ________.

Summarize what Weber meant by Verstehen and what Durkheim meant by social facts. How does a sociologist utilize both concepts?

The sociologist responsible for suggesting the connection between history and biography to explain the sociological imagination was ________.

College provides a haven for several million potential workers who are classified as "students" rather than "unemployed," which helps stabilize the job market. This situation represents what Merton would describe as a ________.

Trace the historical development of sociology in Europe, beginning with an explanation of positivism. Conclude the answer with a brief description of the contributions of Comte, Spencer, Durkheim, Marx, and Weber.

According to symbolic interactionists, the deciding factor that determines if change in society is good or bad requires ________.

Because sociology is based on common sense, it is an excellent discipline for students to study who approach the world in a rational, matter-of-fact way.

What is globalization?

Robert Merton's two classifications of function, both of which can help a system adjust, are called ________ and ________ functions.

The scientific method requires ________, repeating a study in order to compare the new research results with the original findings.

The contemporary conflict sociologist who pointed out that conflict is most likely to develop among people in close relationships was ________.

The social thinker of the 19th century who predicted that there would be a classless society once the working class united and began a revolution was ________.

Dr. Zahn's academic interest is analyzing various aspects of society and publishing his findings in sociological journals. In view of this, Dr. Zahn is considered to be a(n) ________ sociologist.

The two sociologists who referred to society as being a kind of living organism were _______ and ________.

Sociologists have always agreed that the most important goal of sociology is to generate social change.

According to Karl Marx, what single element was the key to understanding human history?