1.
1. Religion is a social institution that is best defined as involving:
Correct Answer
A. beliefs and practices concerning what is sacred.
Explanation
Religion is a social institution that encompasses various aspects such as beliefs and practices concerning what is sacred. It involves the understanding and reverence towards things that are considered holy or divine. This includes rituals, ceremonies, prayers, and other religious practices that are performed to connect with the sacred. Beliefs about good and evil, ideas about creation, and norms about how to live are also important components of religion, but they are not the defining characteristic. The core essence of religion lies in the beliefs and practices associated with what is considered sacred.
2.
Following Emile Durkheim, we would define things as profane when we understand them:
Correct Answer
D. In terms of their everyday usefulness.
Explanation
According to Emile Durkheim, things are defined as profane when we understand them in terms of their everyday usefulness. This means that they are seen as ordinary and practical objects that serve a specific purpose in our daily lives. Durkheim believed that the profane is separate from the sacred, which is associated with religious or spiritual significance. By defining things as profane based on their everyday usefulness, Durkheim emphasized the importance of practicality and functionality in our understanding of the world.
3.
Ritual is a matter of
Correct Answer
A. Formal, ceremonial behavior
Explanation
The correct answer is "formal, ceremonial behavior" because ritual refers to a set of actions or activities that are performed in a specific order and with a particular purpose, often in a formal and ceremonial manner. It involves following a prescribed set of rules and procedures that hold symbolic significance within a specific cultural or religious context. Rituals are often performed to mark important events or transitions, to express and reinforce beliefs and values, and to create a sense of unity and community among participants.
4.
. Faith is a way of knowing based on:
Correct Answer
D. Conviction or belief in things unseen
Explanation
Faith is a way of knowing that is based on conviction or belief in things unseen. It involves trusting in something that cannot be proven or observed through scientific research or human senses. Faith often relies on personal experiences, religious teachings, or spiritual beliefs. It allows individuals to have confidence in the existence of something beyond what can be physically perceived, providing a sense of meaning and purpose in life.
5.
Sociological analysis of religion is concerned with:
Correct Answer
A. Understanding patterns of religious activity and their effect on society.
Explanation
The correct answer is understanding patterns of religious activity and their effect on society. Sociological analysis of religion focuses on studying the various patterns of religious practices, rituals, beliefs, and their impact on society as a whole. It aims to analyze how religion influences social structures, norms, values, and behaviors, and how it contributes to the overall functioning and dynamics of a society. This analysis does not involve determining the truth or falsehood of specific religions, discussing the purpose of life, or discerning the will of God.
6.
. Durkheim pointed to three functions of religion for society. Which of the following is NOT one of
them?
Correct Answer
B. Fostering social conflict
Explanation
Durkheim identified three functions of religion for society, namely fostering social cohesion, providing social control, and providing meaning and purpose. However, fostering social conflict is not one of the functions he attributed to religion. Instead, Durkheim believed that religion played a role in promoting social harmony and solidarity by creating a shared set of beliefs and values.
7.
Guided by the symbolic-interaction approach, sociologists examine:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
Guided by the symbolic-interaction approach, sociologists examine various aspects related to daily rituals, religion, and social ties. They study how daily rituals sharpen the boundary between the sacred and profane, how religion provides security and meaning to our existence, and how ritual and religious meaning strengthen social ties like marriage. All of these areas are considered by sociologists who follow the symbolic-interaction approach.
8.
An analysis of how religion supports the interests of a society's elites would fall under which of the
following theoretical approaches?
Correct Answer
C. Social-conflict approach
Explanation
The social-conflict approach focuses on how society is characterized by inequality and conflict between different social groups. In this context, the analysis of how religion supports the interests of a society's elites aligns with the social-conflict approach. This approach examines how religion can be used as a tool to maintain power and control over the masses, perpetuating social inequalities and reinforcing the dominant position of the elites in society.
9.
What do the sacred texts of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam have in common?
Correct Answer
A. Support for patriarchy
Explanation
The sacred texts of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam have in common the support for patriarchy. These religious traditions all emphasize male dominance and male leadership within their respective communities. This can be seen in their teachings on gender roles, family structure, and religious leadership, where men are typically given more authority and power than women. This commonality reflects the historical and cultural contexts in which these religions originated, where patriarchal systems were prevalent.
10.
In his analysis of Protestantism and the rise of capitalism, Max Weber stated that Protestantism:
Correct Answer
D. Stressed duty and hard work, boosting economic production and fostering the rise of
capitalism
Explanation
Max Weber argued that Protestantism emphasized the values of duty and hard work. These values encouraged individuals to work diligently and be productive, which in turn contributed to the growth of economic production. By promoting a strong work ethic, Protestantism played a significant role in fostering the rise of capitalism.
11.
. Supporters of liberation theology hope that this social movement will achieve which of the following
goals?
Correct Answer
D. Reducing social inequality and, especially, poverty
Explanation
Liberation theology is a social movement that seeks to address social inequality and poverty. Its supporters believe that by reducing these issues, they can create a more just and equitable society. The movement aims to bring about social change by advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized and oppressed individuals. By focusing on reducing social inequality and poverty, liberation theology hopes to create a more inclusive and fair society for all.
12.
A religious organization that is well integrated into the larger society is called a
Correct Answer
A. Church.
Explanation
A religious organization that is well integrated into the larger society is called a church. This term refers to a religious institution that is recognized and accepted by the society in which it exists. Churches typically have established traditions, hierarchies, and regular worship services. They often play a significant role in the community, providing spiritual guidance, support, and social services. Unlike sects or cults, churches are more mainstream and have a broader membership base.
13.
. Over the course of its history, the Roman Catholic Church has existed in various forms, including as
a:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
The Roman Catholic Church has existed in various forms throughout history, including as a state church, a church, and a denomination. This means that all of the options provided are correct. The Roman Catholic Church has had periods where it was the official religion of a state, periods where it functioned solely as a religious institution, and periods where it was considered a distinct denomination within Christianity. Therefore, all of the options listed accurately describe different aspects of the Roman Catholic Church's history.
14.
In the United States, the Amish would be an example of a:
Correct Answer
C. Sect.
Explanation
The Amish in the United States can be considered as a sect. A sect refers to a religious group that has broken away from a larger religious organization and holds its own distinct beliefs and practices. The Amish have separated themselves from mainstream society and have their own unique customs, traditions, and religious beliefs. They live in close-knit communities and adhere strictly to their traditional way of life, emphasizing simplicity, humility, and separation from modern technology. Therefore, the Amish can be categorized as a sect within the context of the United States.
15.
. Which of the following concepts refers to a religious organization that is largely outside a society’s
cultural traditions?
Correct Answer
C. Cult
Explanation
A cult refers to a religious organization that is largely outside a society's cultural traditions. Cults often have unconventional beliefs and practices that deviate from the mainstream religious norms. They may be led by charismatic leaders who have a strong influence over their followers. Cults are typically seen as fringe groups and are often viewed with suspicion by the larger society.
16.
Which of the following religious organizations began as a cult?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
All of the above religious organizations began as cults. In their early stages, Islam, Christianity, and Judaism were considered cults because they were small, alternative religious movements that deviated from the mainstream beliefs of their time. Over time, these movements grew in popularity and gained more followers, eventually evolving into established religions. The term "cult" is often used to describe a new or unconventional religious group that is seen as outside of the mainstream or deviating from traditional beliefs and practices.
17.
Animism is the belief that:
Correct Answer
B. Everything in the world is a conscious, living force that is able to affect us.
Explanation
Animism is a belief system that holds that everything in the world, including objects and natural phenomena, possesses a conscious and living force that can influence human beings. This belief suggests that there is a spiritual essence or energy present in all things, and that these forces can have an impact on human lives. It is a worldview that sees the world as interconnected and alive, with a web of relationships between humans, animals, plants, and even inanimate objects. This belief system is often associated with indigenous cultures and is characterized by a deep respect and reverence for nature.
18.
Christianity is one example of which of the following types of religions?
Correct Answer
A. Monotheism
Explanation
Christianity is an example of monotheism because it is a religion that believes in and worships only one God. Unlike polytheism, which believes in multiple gods, and animism, which believes in spirits inhabiting natural objects, monotheistic religions focus on the worship of a single deity. In the case of Christianity, this deity is the God of the Bible. Therefore, the correct answer is monotheism.
19.
Polytheism refers to:
Correct Answer
C. Belief in many gods.
Explanation
Polytheism refers to the belief in many gods. This means that followers of polytheistic religions believe in the existence of multiple deities, each with their own powers and attributes. Unlike monotheistic religions that believe in a single god, polytheistic belief systems acknowledge and worship multiple gods, often associated with different aspects of life or natural phenomena. This belief in many gods is a defining characteristic of polytheism.
20.
In the United States, the Muslim population includes which of the following?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above are correct." This is because the Muslim population in the United States includes most Arab Americans, many Asian Americans, and some African Americans. These groups make up a significant portion of the Muslim population in the country.
21.
The world's largest concentration of Jews (6 million) is found in:
Correct Answer
B. North America
Explanation
The correct answer is North America. North America has the largest concentration of Jews, with approximately 6 million residing in the region. This can be attributed to various factors, including historical migration patterns, such as Jewish immigration to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, North America has been a destination for Jewish refugees fleeing persecution and seeking better opportunities. The presence of thriving Jewish communities, cultural institutions, and religious organizations further contributes to the significant Jewish population in North America.
22.
Which of the following is the oldest of the world religions discussed in the text?
Correct Answer
A. Hinduism
Explanation
Hinduism is considered the oldest of the world religions discussed in the text. It originated in the Indus Valley civilization around 2000 BCE and has evolved over thousands of years. Hinduism is characterized by a diverse set of beliefs and practices, including the concepts of dharma, karma, and reincarnation. It has had a significant influence on the development of other religions and philosophies in the region. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, on the other hand, emerged much later in history.
23.
Confucianism is closely linked to the traditional culture of:
Correct Answer
B. China
Explanation
Confucianism is closely linked to the traditional culture of China. Confucianism originated in China and has had a profound influence on Chinese society and values for centuries. It emphasizes the importance of filial piety, respect for elders, and maintaining social harmony. Confucianism's teachings have shaped Chinese political and social systems, education, and family structure. It is considered one of the pillars of Chinese civilization and has deeply influenced various aspects of Chinese culture, including ethics, morality, and social relationships.
24.
In general, compared to Eastern religions, Western religions:
Correct Answer
A. Are deity-based
Explanation
The correct answer is that Western religions are deity-based. This means that Western religions typically revolve around the worship and belief in one or more deities, such as Christianity's belief in the Holy Trinity or Judaism's belief in the monotheistic God. Unlike Eastern religions, which may have a more diverse range of beliefs and practices that do not necessarily center around a specific deity, Western religions place a strong emphasis on the worship and devotion to a higher power.
25.
In the United States, a majority of people (52.1 percent) claim to be:
Correct Answer
C. Protestant
Explanation
The correct answer is Protestant because it is the religious group that has the highest percentage of followers in the United States, with 52.1 percent of the population claiming to be Protestant. This suggests that a majority of people in the country identify with this particular Christian denomination.
26.
In the United States, _____ are more religious than _____.
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above are correct." This is because the statement is comparing different groups in the United States and their levels of religiosity. The first option states that older people are more religious than younger people, which is a commonly observed trend. The second option states that women are more religious than men, which is also a commonly observed trend. The third option states that members of sects are more religious than members of churches, which can vary depending on the specific sect or church. Therefore, all of these options are correct as they highlight different groups that tend to exhibit higher levels of religiosity in the United States.
27.
. Secularization refers to which of the following?
Correct Answer
C. The historical decline in the importance of the sacred.
Explanation
Secularization refers to the historical decline in the importance of the sacred. This means that over time, there has been a decrease in the significance and influence of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions in people's lives and in society as a whole. This can be seen as a shift towards a more secular or non-religious worldview, where religious beliefs and practices have less impact on individuals and societal norms.
28.
Which of the following is a correct example of civil religion?
Correct Answer
A. Singing patriotic song on the Fourth of July
Explanation
The correct example of civil religion is singing patriotic songs on the Fourth of July. Civil religion refers to the incorporation of religious rituals and symbols into the public life of a nation. Singing patriotic songs on Independence Day is a common practice that symbolizes the unity, pride, and devotion to the nation. It is a way for citizens to express their shared values and beliefs, similar to how religious rituals are performed in traditional religions.
29.
Read the four statements below. Which of the four is NOT a trait of religious fundamentalism?
Correct Answer
D. Accepting religious pluralism
Explanation
The trait of religious fundamentalism refers to a strict adherence to traditional religious beliefs and practices. Endorsing conservative political goals, seeking the personal experience of God's presence, and interpreting religious texts literally are all traits commonly associated with religious fundamentalism. However, accepting religious pluralism goes against the core principles of fundamentalism, as it implies a recognition and acceptance of diverse religious beliefs and practices.
30.
Which of the following nations stands out as the most religious of all high-income countries?
Correct Answer
C. The United States
Explanation
The United States stands out as the most religious of all high-income countries because it has a higher percentage of people who identify as religious and regularly participate in religious activities compared to other high-income nations. This can be attributed to various factors such as historical religious traditions, a diverse religious landscape, and the influence of religious beliefs in American society and culture.
31.
Education is the social institution by which society provides people with important knowledge,
including:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
Education is a social institution that plays a crucial role in providing individuals with important knowledge. It equips people with job skills, enabling them to acquire the necessary abilities to succeed in their chosen professions. Additionally, education imparts basic facts and information, ensuring individuals have a solid foundation of knowledge in various subjects. Furthermore, education also introduces individuals to cultural norms and values, helping them understand and appreciate different cultures and societies. Therefore, all of the given options are correct as they encompass the different aspects of knowledge that education provides.
32.
If you were to enter a school in ancient Greece or China, the students you would find there would be
mainly:
Correct Answer
C. The rich.
Explanation
In ancient Greece and China, education was primarily accessible to the wealthy elite. The rich had the means to afford tutors and provide their children with a formal education. On the other hand, women had limited access to education in these societies, as they were often expected to focus on domestic duties. Soldiers were not the main demographic in schools, as their primary role was military training. While there may have been some foreigners attending schools, the majority of students would have been from the affluent class.
33.
In the world as a whole, about what share of children reach the secondary grades in school?
Correct Answer
B. Two-thirds
Explanation
Two-thirds of children reach the secondary grades in school globally. This means that a significant majority of children around the world are able to continue their education beyond primary school. It indicates that efforts have been made to improve access to education and ensure that more children have the opportunity to pursue further studies. However, it also highlights the need to continue working towards providing quality education for all children, as there is still a significant portion who do not reach the secondary grades.
34.
The major reason that schooling is limited in lower-income nations is that:
Correct Answer
D. Many poor children must work for income.
Explanation
In lower-income nations, many poor children are forced to work in order to contribute to their family's income. This limits their access to formal schooling as they are unable to attend classes regularly. Due to economic constraints, these children are often unable to prioritize education over their immediate financial needs. As a result, the lack of financial resources and the necessity to work prevent them from receiving a proper education.
35.
On which of the following continents do we find the most countries with high rates of illiteracy?
Correct Answer
A. Africa
Explanation
Africa is the correct answer because it is known to have the highest rates of illiteracy among all the continents. This is due to various factors such as poverty, lack of access to education, and political instability in many African countries. Additionally, Africa has a large population, which further contributes to the high number of countries with high illiteracy rates.
36.
. At what point in our history had a majority of adults in the United States earned a high-school
diploma?
Correct Answer
D. The mid-1960s
Explanation
In the mid-1960s, a majority of adults in the United States had earned a high school diploma. This suggests that prior to the mid-1960s, a majority of adults did not have a high school education.
37.
In the United States today, what percentage of people over the age of twenty-five have earned a fouryear college degree?
Correct Answer
A. 29 percent
Explanation
According to the given information, the correct answer is 29 percent. This implies that less than one-third of people over the age of twenty-five in the United States have earned a four-year college degree.
38.
In the United States, the focus of education has always been:
Correct Answer
B. What is practical and job-related
Explanation
The correct answer is "what is practical and job-related." This is because the education system in the United States has traditionally emphasized practical skills and job preparation. This approach aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the workforce and meet the demands of the job market. The focus on practical and job-related education helps students develop skills that are directly applicable to real-world situations and prepares them for future employment opportunities.
39.
Which of the following is a latent function of schooling?
Correct Answer
C. Providing child-care
Explanation
Providing child-care is a latent function of schooling because it is not the primary or intended purpose of education. While the main goal of schooling is to impart knowledge and skills, schools also indirectly serve as a form of child-care for working parents. By providing a safe and supervised environment for children during school hours, schools help parents fulfill their childcare needs while they are at work. This function is not explicitly stated or recognized as the primary purpose of education, but it is an important and beneficial aspect of schooling for many families.
40.
A social-conflict analysis suggests that schooling in the United States developed in the late nineteenth
century because that was the time that:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
A social-conflict analysis suggests that schooling in the United States developed in the late nineteenth century because factory owners needed an obedient and disciplined workforce. This was also the time when immigrants had to learn English in order to work in factories, and the country had to teach immigrants that its way of life was right and good. All of these factors contributed to the development of schooling in the United States during that time period.
41.
One result of tracking in schools is that:
Correct Answer
C. The students who get the best schooling are usually those who are more privileged to
begin with.
Explanation
The given answer suggests that one result of tracking in schools is that students who are already privileged tend to receive the best schooling. This means that students from more advantaged backgrounds have better access to resources, opportunities, and quality education compared to their less privileged peers. This perpetuates educational inequalities and further widens the achievement gap between different socioeconomic groups.
42.
As income goes up among U.S. families, we find that
Correct Answer
C. The share of children going to college goes up
Explanation
As income goes up among U.S. families, the share of children going to college goes up. This means that as families' income increases, a higher percentage of their children are able to attend college. This could be due to increased financial resources that allow families to afford the costs associated with higher education, such as tuition, books, and living expenses. It could also be influenced by a higher value placed on education and the belief that a college degree is necessary for future success.
43.
Community colleges are an important part of higher education in the United States because they:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
Community colleges are an important part of higher education in the United States because they enroll almost 40 percent of college students. This means that a significant portion of students are able to access higher education through community colleges. Additionally, community colleges greatly expand the opportunity to attend college by providing affordable and accessible options for students who may not have the means to attend a four-year university. Furthermore, community colleges enroll half of African American and Hispanic undergraduates, highlighting their role in promoting diversity and inclusivity in higher education.
44.
According to Theodore Sizer, rigid bureaucracy harms schooling by:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
Theodore Sizer argues that rigid bureaucracy harms schooling in multiple ways. Firstly, it imposes uniformity on culturally diverse schools, disregarding the unique needs and backgrounds of students. Secondly, it places excessive emphasis on test scores and other numerical ratings, which can lead to a narrow focus on academic performance rather than holistic development. Lastly, it expects all students to progress at the same rate, ignoring the fact that individuals have different learning styles and abilities. Therefore, all of the given options accurately describe the negative impact of rigid bureaucracy on education.
45.
For the United States as a whole, about what percentage of people between ages sixteen and twentyfour drop out before completing high school?
Correct Answer
B. 8.7 percent
Explanation
Approximately 8.7 percent of people between the ages of sixteen and twenty-four drop out before completing high school in the United States. This indicates that a relatively small percentage of young individuals fail to complete their high school education.
46.
Which of the following categories of the U.S. population has the highest dropout rate?
Correct Answer
C. Hispanics
Explanation
Hispanics have the highest dropout rate among the given categories of the U.S. population. This could be due to various factors such as socioeconomic challenges, language barriers, limited access to quality education, and cultural factors. These factors can contribute to a higher likelihood of Hispanics facing difficulties in completing their education and consequently having a higher dropout rate compared to other groups.
47.
The problem of functional illiteracy means that
Correct Answer
A. Many young people leave school without having learned basic skills.
Explanation
The problem of functional illiteracy refers to the situation where many young people complete their schooling without acquiring essential skills. This implies that despite attending school, these individuals are unable to grasp basic knowledge and abilities necessary for functioning effectively in society. It does not refer to older people forgetting what they learned in school, children not attending school, or teachers lacking teaching skills.
48.
To improve U.S. schooling, A Nation at Risk recommended:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are correct.
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above are correct." The explanation for this answer is that the report "A Nation at Risk" recommended multiple measures to improve U.S. schooling. These measures included requiring students to study more subjects such as math, English, social studies, science, and computer science. It also suggested improving teacher training to enhance the quality of education and raising teachers' salaries to attract and retain talented educators. Therefore, all of these recommendations are correct according to the report.
49.
One indication that there is a problem of grade inflation is the fact that almost half of all grades given
to today's high school students are:
Correct Answer
A. A's.
Explanation
The fact that almost half of all grades given to today's high school students are A's indicates a problem of grade inflation. This means that a large number of students are receiving high grades, potentially without truly earning them. Grade inflation can devalue the meaning and significance of grades, making it difficult to accurately assess a student's performance and abilities.
50.
Magnet schools encourage:
Correct Answer
A. Students to specialize in specific areas of study
Explanation
Magnet schools encourage students to specialize in specific areas of study. This means that these schools provide focused programs or curricula that allow students to delve deeper into a particular subject or field of interest. By offering specialized courses or programs, magnet schools aim to develop students' skills and knowledge in specific areas, such as science, arts, or technology. This approach helps students explore their passions and talents, preparing them for future careers or advanced studies in their chosen field.