Questions and Answers
What defines a social group in the social sciences?
Which of the following is an example of a primary group?
What is a common characteristic of secondary groups?
Which theoretical paradigm suggests societies develop through different growth stages?
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In sociological terms, what is an 'in-group'?
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How do social networks differ from social groups?
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Which of the following is NOT classified as a primary social group?
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What is a characteristic of reference groups?
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What did Herbert Spencer believe regarding the change in societies?
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Which sociologist is known for coining the term 'sociology'?
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What concept did Émile Durkheim introduce regarding the beliefs of a society?
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According to Robert Merton, which type of functions are recognized in society?
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Which paradigm views society as an organized network of cooperating groups?
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Karl Marx's conflict theory suggests that society is characterized by what?
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Which sociologist is credited with introducing grand functional theories in sociology?
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In the structural-functional approach, what are social institutions considered to provide?
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Study Notes
Definition of Social Groups
- A social group consists of two or more individuals who interact, share common characteristics, and have a sense of unity.
- Social groups vary in size and types, ranging from small groups like friends to large ones like societies.
- In sociology, a group includes people with similar norms, values, and regular interactions.
- Types of social groups include primary groups (families, friends) and secondary groups (colleagues, organizations).
- The Philippines has three primary social classes: low-income, middle-income, and high-income, with a ranking system that sometimes places the poor below the low-income class.
Social Networks
- Social groups can be classified as communities in religious, ethnic, workplace, educational, and sports contexts.
- Examples of primary social groups include families, peer groups, classmates, and church communities, highlighting informal communication.
Theoretical Paradigm Definition
- A theoretical paradigm is a scientific perspective addressing observable phenomena through various viewpoints.
- It encompasses interpretations of society, viewing it as stable, changing, in conflict, or interacting.
Classifications of Theoretical Paradigms
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Evolutionary Paradigm
- Suggests societies evolve through stages, much like biological organisms, from primitive to complex forms.
- Examples include social evolution from clans to tribes, communities, municipalities, cities, provinces, and nations.
- Notable proponent: Herbert Spencer, who applied Darwin's theory to societal changes.
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Structural-Functional Paradigm
- Views society as an organized network where cooperating groups function according to social norms.
- Social institutions shape societal organization and function, such as the family’s role in society.
- Key figures include Auguste Comte (founder of sociology), Talcott Parsons (functionalism leader), Émile Durkheim (collective conscience), and Robert Merton (differentiating between intended and unintended functions).
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Social-Conflict Paradigm
- Envisions society as an arena of inequality leading to conflict and social change.
- Conflicts arise between dominant and marginalized groups, illustrated by class (rich vs. poor), racial (whites vs. blacks), and gender dynamics (men vs. women).
- Karl Marx is a foundational figure, proposing that society is in a perpetual state of conflict over limited resources.
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Description
Explore the definition and characteristics of social groups in the social sciences. This quiz covers various aspects of how groups interact, share identities, and maintain unity, as well as the different types of social groups recognized by sociologists.
