Early Sociologists
Who is known as the father of sociology?
Auguste Comte
What type of research collects large amounts of data quickly using questionnaires or interviews?
Survey/interview research
What are norms?
Rule of behavior that guide society
What is one right a person has when they join a group?
To be heard, respected, or participate
What is a status?
a social position a person holds
Which theorist believed society is shaped by class conflict between the bourgeoisie and proletriat
karl marx
What research method involves studying a group by becoming part of the group?
Participant observation (Gang Leader for a day)
Give one example of a cultural symbol.
answer may vary
What is one responsibility group members have?
o follow group norms or contribute to group goals
What is the difference between an achieved status and an ascribed status?
Achieved is earned; ascribed is assigned at birth
Which sociologist studied social integration and conducted famous research on suicide?
Emile Durkheim
In an experiment, what do we call the variable that the researcher purposely changes?
independent variable
What is the difference between material and nonmaterial culture?
Material culture = physical objects; nonmaterial culture = ideas, values, beliefs
What is conformity, and how does it relate to group behavior?
Adjusting behavior to match group expectations
Define role.
Expected behaviors attached to a status
What is Versteshen, a concept introduced by Max Weber?
Understanding social behavior by putting yourself in someone else's shoes
Name one strength and one weakness of surveys.
Strength: Quick access to large data; Weakness: Participants may give dishonest answers
Identify the four types of norms: folkways, mores, laws, and taboos.
Folkways = everyday customs; Mores = moral rules; Laws = written and enforced rules; Taboos = forbidden behaviors with strong disgust
Give an example of a situation where group membership influences someone’s behavior.
answers vary
What is role conflict?
When two different roles have competing demands
Which early sociologist argued that societies develop through a process of social evolution similar to biological evolution, often summarized by the phrase “survival of the fittest,”
Herbert Spencer
Explain the main difference between qualitative and quantitative research.
Qualitative research uses descriptive, non‑numerical data; quantitative research uses numerical, measurable data
What is ethnocentrism? Why can it be harmful?
Believing one’s culture is superior; can lead to prejudice or misjudging other cultures
Give one example of how a leader influences group behavior.
Setting expectations, assigning tasks, modeling behavior, motivating members
What is role strain? Give an example.
Stress from competing demands within ONE role; e.g., a teacher who must grade and prepare lessons