UCSP Quiz on Wealth, Power, and Prestige

Which of the following best defines “wealth” in the context of social desirables?

• The ability to influence or control others.

• The level of education a person attained.

• The respect and admiration a person receives in society.

• The total value of money, assets and properties owned by a person or family.

A person who holds a high political position, such as a president or a senator, is an example of someone with:

• Power

• Privilege

• Prestige

• Wealth

Which of the following situations best illustrates the concept of prestige?

• A billionaire donating money to charity.

• A doctor being highly respected in the community for saving lives.

• A person inheriting a large fortune from their parents.

• A politician making laws that benefit the country.

How are wealth, power and prestige related in society?

• Only wealthy people can have power and prestige.

• Power always leads to wealth, but not to prestige.

• Prestige is independent of wealth and power and they have no connection.

• They often influence each other as wealthy people can gain power and prestige more easily.

In a society with high social mobility, how would wealth, power and prestige typically function?

• Only those born into wealthy families can gain power and prestige.

• People can move between social classes based on achievements and opportunities.

• Social class is determined entirely by one’s physical appearance.

• Wealth, power and prestige are inherited and rarely change.

According to the functionalist perspective, why does social stratification exist?

• To create unnecessary divisions in society.

• To ensure that the most important roles are filled by the most qualified individuals.

• To keep the wealthy in power and the poor in poverty.

• To prevent social mobility.

Which of the following best describes the conflict perspective on social stratification?

• Inequality exists because the powerful control resources and oppress the weak

• Stratification is necessary for social stability.

• Social classes work together to create a balanced society.

• Wealth and power are evenly distributed in all societies.

Which sociologist is most closely associated with the conflict perspective on social stratification?

• Emile Durkheim

• Karl Marx

• Max Weber

• Talcott Parsons

How would a functionalist explain income inequality in society?

• It is a result of unfair policies and economic oppression.

• It is a natural outcome that ensures people are motivated to work hard for success.

• It is a temporary problem that will eventually disappear.

• It only exists in capitalist societies.

Which of the following is a major criticism of the functionalist view on stratification?

• It assumes all people have equal opportunities to succeed.

• It ignores how social inequality benefits society.

• It focuses only on conflict and oppression.

• It rejects the idea that people work hard for success.