Paradigms Quiz

How many theoretical perspectives are there in sociology?

• one

• two

• three

• four

Answer explanation

In sociology, there are three main theoretical perspectives: functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Each offers a different lens to analyze social phenomena, making 'three' the correct answer.

There is only one microlevel perspective. Which one is microlevel?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

Answer explanation

The Symbolic-Interaction Perspective is the only microlevel perspective, focusing on individual interactions and meanings. In contrast, the Conflict and Functional Perspectives are macrolevel, analyzing larger social structures.

You're headin' to a weddin.'

You don't really want to go because one of the brides is the sister of your ex-boyfriend.

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

• Macrolevel

Answer explanation

This situation reflects the Symbolic-Interaction Perspective as it focuses on personal relationships and the meanings attached to them, particularly the emotional conflict stemming from attending a wedding related to an ex.

You're headin' to a weddin.'

The couple is getting married at an expensive country club and expect wedding gifts that cost at least $150.

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

• Microlevel

Answer explanation

The expectation of expensive gifts at a wedding reflects the Conflict Perspective, which highlights social inequalities and the pressure to conform to economic standards in social events.

You're headin' to a weddin.'

As per tradition, you will sit on the groom's side of the venue since he is your cousin.

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Persective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

Answer explanation

The Functional Perspective focuses on the roles and norms within a social structure. Sitting on the groom's side reflects family roles and traditions, highlighting the function of social gatherings in reinforcing relationships.

Going on a date!

Your adults insist on meeting your date, as is customary for first dates for young adults.

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

Answer explanation

The insistence of adults meeting a date reflects the Functional Perspective, which emphasizes the role of social norms and customs in maintaining societal stability and order, particularly in family and relationship contexts.

Going on a date!

You've never really liked "cat people" because you're more of a "dog person."

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

Answer explanation

The statement reflects personal feelings and interactions regarding pet preferences, highlighting individual meanings and social interactions, which aligns with the Symbolic-Interaction Perspective.

Going on a date!

You're a bit nervous that people will treat you weird while you're out since you are 18 and your date is 74.

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

Answer explanation

The situation reflects the Conflict Perspective, as it highlights the tension and potential judgment between different age groups, emphasizing societal norms and power dynamics related to age.

College time, smarty pants!

You know it's really important to take this next step in life in the sequence of rites of passage by going to college before getting a permanent job in your career field, getting married and having kids.

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

Answer explanation

The statement emphasizes the importance of sequential life stages, which aligns with the Functional Perspective. This perspective views society as a system of interrelated parts, where education plays a crucial role in preparing individuals for their future roles.

College time, smarty pants!

You don't want to enter your adult life in a mountain of debt so you pick a community college instead of a private 4-year college.

Which perspective does this represent?

• Conflict Perspective

• Functional Perspective

• Symbolic-Interaction Perspective

Answer explanation

Choosing community college over a private 4-year college to avoid debt reflects the Conflict Perspective, which emphasizes the struggles between different social classes and the impact of economic factors on education choices.