Sociology Test: Trivia Questions!
Sociology is society's knowledge, human social behavior, social interaction, and cultural surrounding. It is a science that uses several empirical investigation methods and critical analysis—the subject matter range from micro-level studies of society to macro-level analyses. Take this quiz to test your knowledge about sociology.
- 1.
Despite inflation and other factors, why has income in Canada increase?
- A.
There are more workers.
- B.
Workers are more productive.
- C.
Workers are more educated.
- D.
Workers have a better work ethic
Correct Answer
B. Workers are more productive.Explanation
The correct answer is "Workers are more productive." This means that the increase in income in Canada can be attributed to the fact that workers are able to produce more output in the same amount of time. This could be due to advancements in technology, better training and skills development, or improvements in work processes. As a result, businesses are able to generate higher revenues and can afford to pay their employees higher wages.Rate this question:
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- 2.
According to the text, which of the following includes all the factors that can be used to explain income inequality?
- A.
Natural talent + effort + developed skills + assets and money
- B.
Natural talent + effort + social network + assets and money + physical characteristics
- C.
Natural talent + social network + social capital + assets and money
- D.
Natural talent + effort + developed skills + social capital + cultural capital
Correct Answer
D. Natural talent + effort + developed skills + social capital + cultural capitalExplanation
The correct answer includes all the factors that can be used to explain income inequality, which are natural talent, effort, developed skills, social capital, and cultural capital. These factors encompass a combination of innate abilities, hard work, acquired abilities, connections and networks, as well as cultural knowledge and resources.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What is the main disagreement regarding the definition of poverty?
- A.
Whether to base it on consumption or debt
- B.
Whether to define it in absolute or abstract terms
- C.
Whether to define it in absolute or relative terms
- D.
Whether to base it on income or socioeconomic status
Correct Answer
C. Whether to define it in absolute or relative termsExplanation
The main disagreement regarding the definition of poverty is whether to define it in absolute or relative terms. Absolute poverty refers to a fixed standard of living below which individuals are considered to be poor, while relative poverty refers to a comparison of individuals' income or living conditions to the average in their society. This disagreement arises from differing perspectives on how poverty should be measured and understood.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What do statistics from around the world indicate about global inequality?
- A.
Poverty is found mainly in the northern hemisphere
- B.
Adjusting spending habits in wealthy countries wouldn't be enough to provide basic health and nutrition for everyone in the world
- C.
The average income of citizens in highly industrialized countries is much greater than that of citizens in developing coutnries
- D.
The income gap between wealthy and poor nations have been stable over the last few decades
Correct Answer
C. The average income of citizens in highly industrialized countries is much greater than that of citizens in developing coutnriesExplanation
Statistics from around the world indicate that the average income of citizens in highly industrialized countries is much greater than that of citizens in developing countries. This suggests that there is a significant global inequality in terms of income distribution. This inequality implies that adjusting spending habits in wealthy countries alone would not be sufficient to provide basic health and nutrition for everyone in the world. Additionally, the statement implies that poverty is mainly found in the northern hemisphere, and that the income gap between wealthy and poor nations has remained stable over the last few decades.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What did Marx fail to take into account when he predicted that the gap between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat would lead to the eventual overthrow of the bourgeoisie?
- A.
The growth of authoritarian governments
- B.
That factory owners would invest profits into working conditions
- C.
That workers would resist technological developments that improve profits
- D.
The emergence of a large heterogeneous middle class of high-income workers and professionals
Correct Answer
D. The emergence of a large heterogeneous middle class of high-income workers and professionalsExplanation
Marx failed to take into account the emergence of a large heterogeneous middle class of high-income workers and professionals. This middle class, consisting of individuals who were not part of the bourgeoisie but enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle, created a buffer between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. They did not have the same class consciousness and revolutionary potential as the proletariat, and therefore did not contribute to the eventual overthrow of the bourgeoisie as Marx predicted.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following would be the best critique of the functional theory of stratification?
- A.
Unions are dysfunctional
- B.
Many people inherit wealth
- C.
The concept of importance in occupations is faulty
- D.
Functionally unimportant jobs have more prestige
Correct Answer
C. The concept of importance in occupations is faultyExplanation
The functional theory of stratification suggests that social inequality is necessary for society to function effectively. However, the critique that the concept of importance in occupations is faulty argues that the theory fails to accurately measure the true importance of different occupations. This critique suggests that the theory may not fully capture the complexity and value of various jobs, leading to an inaccurate understanding of social stratification and its effects on society.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What are the four main ways that semiperipheral countries differ from peripheral countries?
- A.
Substantial foreign investment, support for authoritarian governments, mounting debt, and economic development
- B.
Type of colonialism, state policy, social structure, and geopolitical position
- C.
State policy, mounting debt, geopolitical location, and resource access
- D.
Colonial development, historical structures, foreign investment, and natural resources
Correct Answer
B. Type of colonialism, state policy, social structure, and geopolitical positionExplanation
Semiperipheral countries differ from peripheral countries in terms of their type of colonialism, state policy, social structure, and geopolitical position. This means that the way these countries were colonized, the policies implemented by their governments, the social structures within their societies, and their geographical position all contribute to their classification as either semiperipheral or peripheral countries.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which theory suggests that countries remain poor because they have not acquired new ideas, technology, and institutions?
- A.
Conflict
- B.
Modernization
- C.
Dependency
- D.
Postmodern
Correct Answer
B. ModernizationExplanation
The theory of modernization suggests that countries remain poor because they have not acquired new ideas, technology, and institutions. This theory argues that economic development and prosperity can be achieved by adopting modern practices and institutions, such as democracy, free markets, and technological advancements. It emphasizes the importance of innovation, education, and technological progress in overcoming poverty and achieving economic growth. According to this theory, countries that fail to modernize and adapt to new ideas and technologies will continue to struggle economically.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The factory workers were working long hours for very little pay, although they knew that the company was making record-breaking profits. When the management announced that a reduction in pay was necessary to keep the factory open, the workers were so angry that they staged a protest and refused to let anyone into the building. Whose social theory was reflected in this protest?
- A.
Davis and Moore
- B.
Weber
- C.
Marx
- D.
Rostow
Correct Answer
C. MarxExplanation
Marx's social theory, known as Marxism, focuses on the exploitation of workers by the capitalist class. In this scenario, the factory workers are being paid very little despite the company making record-breaking profits, which aligns with Marx's theory of the bourgeoisie exploiting the proletariat. The workers' protest and refusal to let anyone into the building can be seen as a response to this exploitation and a demand for fair wages and better working conditions.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Sheena purchased a clothing factory and spent her savings on upgrading the sewing machines and buying top-quality cloth to make high-fashion clothing. What would Marx say she invested in?
- A.
Bourgeoisie class
- B.
Means of production
- C.
Proletariat mode of ownership
- D.
Mode of production
Correct Answer
B. Means of productionExplanation
Marx would say that Sheena invested in the means of production. The means of production refers to the resources and tools necessary for the production of goods and services. In this case, Sheena used her savings to upgrade the sewing machines and purchase top-quality cloth, which are essential for the production of high-fashion clothing in her clothing factory. By investing in the means of production, Sheena is able to control the production process and generate profit from the labor of the workers she employs.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Country A receives millions of dollars, mostly to build infrastructure like roads, from Country B. Country B is Country A's largest trading partner. Country B is most interested in Country A's abundant natural resources, like oil and minerals. According to dependency theorists, which method of gaining political control over another country is this example most representative of?
- A.
Geopolitical position
- B.
Support for authoritarian government
- C.
Mounting debt
- D.
Substantial foreign investment
Correct Answer
D. Substantial foreign investmentExplanation
This example is most representative of substantial foreign investment. Country B is providing millions of dollars to Country A for the purpose of building infrastructure, indicating a significant financial investment in the country. This investment is driven by Country B's interest in Country A's abundant natural resources, suggesting that they are seeking to gain control or influence over those resources through their financial support.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Davis and Moore would argue that doctors, plumbers, judges, janitors, construction workers, and housekeepers are all necessary for a functioning society. Which necessary feature found in all societies do they believe that these many professions point to?
- A.
Training
- B.
Class conflict
- C.
Technological complexity
- D.
Inequality
Correct Answer
D. InequalityExplanation
Davis and Moore would argue that the existence of various professions such as doctors, plumbers, judges, janitors, construction workers, and housekeepers in a society points to the necessary feature of inequality. According to their perspective, inequality is essential for the functioning of a society as it ensures that individuals with the necessary skills and abilities are appropriately rewarded and motivated to perform important roles. They believe that the unequal distribution of rewards and status is a natural and necessary aspect of social organization.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Samira and Sandeep discuss poverty and social stratification in Canada after their sociology class one day. They both acknowledge that Canada is a class-divided country, and wish that wasn't the case. They don't believe that being in a state of poverty will motivate people to work hard. Based on this description, which statement best describes Samira and Tandeep's opinions?
- A.
They are mostly representative, except that most Canadians disagree that we live in a class-divided society
- B.
They are representative of most Canadians
- C.
They are not representative of most Canadians
- D.
They are representative of highly-educated Canadians
Correct Answer
B. They are representative of most CanadiansExplanation
The given description states that Samira and Sandeep acknowledge Canada as a class-divided country and express a wish that it wasn't the case. It also mentions that they don't believe that poverty motivates people to work hard. Based on this information, it can be inferred that their opinions align with the majority of Canadians who recognize social stratification and are skeptical about the effectiveness of poverty as a motivator. Therefore, the statement "They are representative of most Canadians" best describes their opinions.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Why is geopolitical position an important factor in the development of semiperipheral countries?
- A.
Foreign funds are injected into the economy by political allies
- B.
It signals to former colonizers that the former colony can be economically independent
- C.
Geopolitical position is closely tied to social programs
- D.
Social stratification is determined by foreign investment
Correct Answer
A. Foreign funds are injected into the economy by political alliesExplanation
Geopolitical position plays a crucial role in the development of semiperipheral countries because it attracts foreign funds from political allies. These allies view the country's strategic location as an opportunity for economic gain and therefore provide financial support. This injection of foreign funds helps stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance infrastructure development. It also signifies to former colonizers that the country can achieve economic independence, boosting its reputation and attracting further investments. Overall, geopolitical position acts as a catalyst for economic development by facilitating the inflow of foreign funds.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Seoyoung and her cousin discuss why so many developing countries continue to stay in a state of poverty. Seoyoung's cousin believes that developing countries have not been innovative enough and should adopt industrialized nations' ways. Seoyoung recognizes this kind of argument from her sociology class. Which theory is Seoyoung's cousin using?
- A.
Modernization
- B.
Dependency
- C.
Conflict
- D.
Stratification
Correct Answer
A. ModernizationExplanation
Seoyoung's cousin is using the modernization theory. This theory suggests that developing countries can overcome poverty by adopting the ways of industrialized nations and embracing modernization. It believes that technological advancements, economic growth, and cultural changes are necessary for development and reducing poverty. The cousin's argument that developing countries should adopt the ways of industrialized nations aligns with the principles of modernization theory.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following includes actions such as raised eyebrows, harsh stares, corrective nudges, gossiping, and shaming?
- A.
Mores
- B.
Non-effectivec sanction
- C.
Symbols of moral panic
- D.
Informal punishments
Correct Answer
D. Informal punishmentsExplanation
Informal punishments refer to actions such as raised eyebrows, harsh stares, corrective nudges, gossiping, and shaming. These actions are not formal or legally enforced, but they serve as a way for society to enforce norms and expectations. Informal punishments can be used to discourage certain behaviors or to maintain social order within a community. They are often subtle and non-verbal, but can have significant social consequences for individuals who deviate from accepted norms.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which statement might be said about crimes such as prostitution and illegal drug use?
- A.
They are caseload crimes
- B.
They are examples of victimless crimes
- C.
They are major parts of the crime index
- D.
They are frequently included in the major crime indexes
Correct Answer
B. They are examples of victimless crimesExplanation
Prostitution and illegal drug use are often considered victimless crimes because they involve consensual activities between adults. In these cases, the individuals involved willingly participate in the activities and do not harm or infringe upon the rights of others. While these activities may be illegal, they are seen as victimless because they do not involve direct harm or violence towards others.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Travis Hirschi argues that a set of ties binds young people to the conventional world, and when those ties are weak, deviance and crime occur. What is this theory known as?
- A.
Labelling theory
- B.
Control theory
- C.
Routine activities theory
- D.
Strain theory
Correct Answer
B. Control theoryExplanation
Control theory, as argued by Travis Hirschi, posits that the presence of strong social bonds and attachments to conventional society act as a deterrent to deviant behavior. When these bonds are weak or absent, individuals are more likely to engage in deviance and crime. This theory emphasizes the importance of social control in preventing delinquency and highlights the role of relationships, commitments, values, and norms in shaping behavior.Rate this question:
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- 19.
According to conflict theorists, what is the determining factor in the definitions of crime and deviance and the distribution of punishment?
- A.
The access to power
- B.
The pace of social change
- C.
The social controls in place
- D.
The strength of religion as a constraining force
Correct Answer
A. The access to powerExplanation
According to conflict theorists, the determining factor in the definitions of crime and deviance and the distribution of punishment is the access to power. Conflict theorists argue that those in power have the ability to shape and enforce laws and norms in a way that benefits their own interests. This means that what is considered criminal or deviant, as well as who is punished for these actions, is influenced by those in power. The access to power allows certain groups to define what is considered criminal or deviant, and to control the distribution of punishment in society.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Jeremy's gang wanted him to help rob a variety store. However, Jeremy refused and left the gang. Jeremy's parents had worked hard all their lives to afford him opportunities for his future, and if he participated in the robbery and got caught, he would never be able to face his parents again. According to the text, what is the basis of this deterrence to crime?
- A.
Control theory
- B.
Activity theory
- C.
Strain theory
- D.
Differential association theory
Correct Answer
A. Control theoryExplanation
The basis of this deterrence to crime is control theory. Control theory suggests that individuals are deterred from engaging in criminal behavior when they have strong bonds to conventional society, such as family and community. In this case, Jeremy's strong bond with his parents and their hard work to provide him with opportunities for the future serve as a deterrent to his involvement in the robbery. If he were to participate and get caught, he would risk damaging his relationship with his parents and losing the support and opportunities they have provided.Rate this question:
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- 21.
According to your text, which statement best explains the ability of humans to perpetrate atrocities against their own kind?
- A.
We are biologically predisposed to violence
- B.
It is in the nature of groups and bureaucracies
- C.
Group hatred is an empirical and historical fact
- D.
Humans are animals by nature
Correct Answer
B. It is in the nature of groups and bureaucraciesExplanation
The statement "It is in the nature of groups and bureaucracies" best explains the ability of humans to perpetrate atrocities against their own kind. This suggests that when individuals become part of a group or a bureaucratic system, they may be more likely to engage in harmful actions towards others. This could be due to factors such as conformity, dehumanization, or a diffusion of responsibility within the group or bureaucracy.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which statement best reflects Max Weber's perspective of bureaucracies?
- A.
They are the least efficient type of secondary group
- B.
They are the most efficient type of secondary group
- C.
They are a force destructive to social solidarity
- D.
They contribute to social solidarity
Correct Answer
A. They are the least efficient type of secondary groupExplanation
Max Weber's perspective of bureaucracies suggests that they are the least efficient type of secondary group. This is because bureaucracies are characterized by rigid hierarchical structures, formal rules and procedures, and impersonal relationships. According to Weber, these characteristics often lead to inefficiency, as decision-making processes can be slow and cumbersome, and individual creativity and flexibility may be stifled. Additionally, bureaucracies may prioritize adherence to rules and regulations over achieving goals efficiently. Therefore, Weber believed that bureaucracies are generally less efficient compared to other types of secondary groups.Rate this question:
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- 23.
According to Ferdinand Tonnies, what did a "society" consist of?
- A.
Intimate and emotionally intense ties
- B.
Relationships connected by self-interest
- C.
A community of extended families
- D.
Rural local and small villages
Correct Answer
B. Relationships connected by self-interestExplanation
According to Ferdinand Tonnies, a "society" consists of relationships connected by self-interest. This means that individuals in a society come together and form connections based on their own personal gains and benefits. This concept suggests that people interact and engage with each other in order to fulfill their own needs and desires, rather than forming intimate or emotionally intense ties. Tonnies believed that this self-interest is a fundamental aspect of social relationships within a society.Rate this question:
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