Chapter 1 Test - "What is Sociology"

The social science that studies human society and social behavior is

• sociology

• psychology

• anthropology

• political science

Answer explanation

Sociology is the social science that specifically studies human society and social behavior, making it the correct choice. Psychology focuses on individual behavior, anthropology studies cultures, and political science examines governance.

Which social science studies people and events of the past?

• political science

• social psychology

• history

• economics

Answer explanation

History is the social science that specifically studies people and events of the past, analyzing how they shape societies and cultures. The other options focus on different aspects of human behavior and systems.

Which statement best describes the social sciences?

• observable facts or events that involve human society

• descriptions of how people relate to one another and influence each other’s behavior

• hidden meanings behind human actions

• disciplines that study human social behavior and functions of human society in a scientific manner

Answer explanation

The correct choice describes social sciences as disciplines that scientifically study human behavior and societal functions, encompassing various aspects of how individuals interact and influence each other.

The social science that deals with mental processes and behavior is

• sociology

• psychology

• anthropology

• political science

Answer explanation

The correct answer is psychology, as it specifically studies mental processes and behavior, unlike sociology, anthropology, and political science, which focus on different aspects of human society.

What is anthropology?

• the social science that deals with behavior and mental processes

• the comparative study of past and present cultures

• the social science that studies human society and social behavior

• the study of past events and people

Answer explanation

Anthropology is primarily concerned with the comparative study of past and present cultures, examining human societies, their development, and cultural practices over time.

Sociologists refer to an observable fact or event that involves human society as a

• social phenomenon

• social perspective

• asocial interaction

• sociological imagination

Answer explanation

Sociologists use the term 'social phenomenon' to describe observable facts or events that occur within human society, making it the correct choice over the other options.

What is political science?

• the study of the choices people make in an effort to satisfy their needs and wants

• the study of the organization and operation of governments

• the study of past events

• the study of how the social environment affects an individual’s behavior and personality

Answer explanation

Political science is primarily concerned with the study of the organization and operation of governments, making the second choice the correct answer. The other options focus on different fields of study.

This French philosopher is considered by many to be the founder of sociology.

• Auguste Comte

• Émile Durkheim

• Karl Marx

• Herbert Spencer

Answer explanation

Auguste Comte is recognized as the founder of sociology for his role in establishing the discipline and introducing the term 'sociology' itself. His work laid the groundwork for future sociological theories.

Auguste Comte suggested that certain processes, which he called _____, hold society together.

• social dynamics

• social classes

• social statics

• social functions

Answer explanation

Auguste Comte introduced the concept of 'social statics' to describe the forces that maintain social order and cohesion. This term contrasts with 'social dynamics,' which refers to the changes in society over time.

The phrase “survival of the fittest,” or the belief that the best aspects of society would survive over time, was coined by

• Auguste Comte

• Max Weber

• Karl Marx

• Herbert Spencer

Answer explanation

The phrase "survival of the fittest" was coined by Herbert Spencer, who applied it to social theory, suggesting that the best societal traits would prevail over time. This concept is often misattributed to Charles Darwin.