1.
In which of the following forms of political organization is it most likely that the most important leaders will acquire their position based upon personal background or ability, rather than heredity?
Correct Answer
A. Tribal societies
Explanation
In tribal societies, it is most likely that the most important leaders will acquire their position based upon personal background or ability, rather than heredity. This is because tribal societies often value leadership qualities such as bravery, wisdom, and charisma, which can be developed through personal experiences and skills. In contrast, feudal states and agrarian, preindustrial states tend to have a hereditary system of leadership, where positions are passed down through family lines. Imagined communities refer to the concept of nationhood, which does not necessarily determine leadership selection. Chiefdoms may have a mix of hereditary and merit-based leadership, but tribal societies are more likely to prioritize personal background and ability.
2.
What is a "big man"?
Correct Answer
C. A person who creates his reputation through entrepreneurship and generosity to others
Explanation
A "big man" refers to a person who creates their reputation through entrepreneurship and generosity to others. This term typically describes individuals who have achieved success and influence through their business ventures and their willingness to help and support others. It implies that this person has a strong reputation for being both successful in their own endeavors and generous in sharing their wealth and resources with others.
3.
Which of the following statements about non-state societies is true?
Correct Answer
D. Economic, political, and religious activities are often embedded in one another
Explanation
In non-state societies, economic, political, and religious activities are often interconnected and intertwined with each other. This means that these activities are not separate and distinct, but rather influence and impact each other. For example, economic decisions may be influenced by religious beliefs or political structures may be shaped by economic factors. This interconnectedness highlights the complex nature of non-state societies and the interplay between different aspects of their social organization.
4.
In band-level societies, what does the amount of respect or prestige attached to an individual depend on?
Correct Answer
B. Culturally valued personal attributes
Explanation
In band-level societies, the amount of respect or prestige attached to an individual depends on culturally valued personal attributes. This means that individuals are esteemed and respected based on qualities and characteristics that are highly valued within their specific culture or society. These attributes could include skills, knowledge, wisdom, leadership abilities, bravery, or any other qualities that are considered important and desirable within that particular cultural context. The respect and prestige are not determined by factors such as rank at birth, possessions, labor extraction, or genealogical closeness to ancestors, but rather by the personal attributes that are culturally esteemed.
5.
Which of the following statements about political leaders in foraging bands is true?
Correct Answer
D. They have no means of forcing people to follow their decisions
Explanation
In foraging bands, political leaders do not have the means to force people to follow their decisions. This is because foraging bands are typically small-scale societies where power is decentralized and decision-making is based on consensus rather than coercion. Political leaders in foraging bands rely on persuasion, negotiation, and maintaining good relationships with the group members to gain influence and support for their decisions.
6.
Which of the following is an example of an age set?
Correct Answer
B. The baby-boomers
Explanation
The baby-boomers is an example of an age set because it refers to a specific generation of individuals who were born between the years 1946 and 1964. Age sets are social groups that are defined by the shared age or age range of its members, and they often have distinctive characteristics, experiences, and cultural influences that are specific to their generation. In this case, the baby-boomers represent a unique age set due to the historical context and societal changes that occurred during their lifespan.
7.
Which of the following is an example of an age grade?
Correct Answer
C. High school freshmen
Explanation
An age grade refers to a social group or category that is based on a person's age. High school freshmen fit this definition because they are a specific group of individuals who are at a certain age and are in the same grade level in high school. The other options, such as a village council, the baby-boomers, the Chicago White Sox, and the people in this anthropology class, do not represent age grades as they are not defined by age or grade level.
8.
The presence and acceptance of which of the following is one of the key distinguishing features of a state?
Correct Answer
D. Stratification
Explanation
Stratification is one of the key distinguishing features of a state. It refers to the division of society into different social classes or levels based on factors such as wealth, power, and social status. In a state, there is typically a hierarchical structure where individuals or groups are ranked according to their position and privileges. This stratification helps to establish and maintain social order, as well as determine access to resources and opportunities. It is an important aspect of understanding the functioning and dynamics of a state.
9.
Which of the following kinds of societies is most likely to have stratum endogamy (marriage within one's own group)?
Correct Answer
B. A state
Explanation
A state is most likely to have stratum endogamy because it is a complex society with a hierarchical social structure and a centralized political system. In a state, social classes or strata exist, and individuals tend to marry within their own social group to maintain their status and preserve their privileges. Stratum endogamy helps to reinforce social boundaries and sustain the power dynamics within the state. In contrast, other forms of societies like bands, clans, tribes, or societies with segmentary lineage organization are less likely to have stratum endogamy as they typically have more egalitarian social structures and less rigid social divisions.
10.
Broader than political control, the concept of ________ refers to those fields of the social system (beliefs, practices, and institutions) that are most actively involved in the maintenance of any norms and the regulation of any conflict
Correct Answer
B. Social controls
Explanation
The concept of social controls refers to the various aspects of the social system that play an active role in maintaining norms and regulating conflicts. This includes beliefs, practices, and institutions that are involved in shaping and enforcing societal rules. Social controls are broader than just political control as they encompass a wider range of factors that influence behavior and ensure social order.