Sociology Institutions and Theories
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a step to study a theory?

  • Apply the theory to real-life situations (correct)
  • Identify the research question
  • Develop a hypothesis
  • Conduct empirical research
  • What is the primary purpose of a theory?

  • To describe a phenomenon
  • To predict a phenomenon
  • To explain a phenomenon (correct)
  • To control a phenomenon
  • What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes a political institution from a general institution?

  • It is a type of informal institution
  • It has a formal structure
  • It is a social organization
  • It is involved in policy-making (correct)
  • Which type of institution is characterized by a lack of formal rules and norms?

    <p>Informal institution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is TRUE about the relationship between institutions and theories?

    <p>Theories provide explanations for the behavior of institutions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of a formal institution?

    <p>Government</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between a formal and an informal institution?

    <p>Formal institutions have written rules, while informal institutions have unwritten norms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of studying theories in the context of institutions?

    <p>To understand and explain the behavior of institutions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of an institution that is both formal and political?

    <p>A government agency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following types of theories is most likely to focus on the study of institutions?

    <p>Empirical theory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Institutions

    • An institution is a established and organized system that has a particular purpose or function.
    • A political institution is a system or organization that has a role in the governance of a state or country.

    Types of Institutions

    • Formal institutions: these are established and recognized by a government or authority, and are often written down in laws, rules, or regulations. Examples include governments, courts, and schools.
    • Informal institutions: these are unwritten rules, norms, and customs that are not necessarily recognized by a government or authority, but still have an impact on human behavior and interaction. Examples include social norms, traditions, and cultural values.

    Theories

    • A theory is a well-substantiated explanation for a set of phenomena, often based on a set of hypotheses, laws, or principles.
    • To study a theory, follow these steps:
      • Define the theory and its key concepts
      • Identify the theory's assumptions and limitations
      • Analyze the theory's strengths and weaknesses
      • Evaluate the theory's applications and implications
      • Compare the theory to other theories
    • There are different types of theories, including:
      • Descriptive theories: explain what is
      • Explanatory theories: explain why
      • Predictive theories: forecast what will happen

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    Description

    This quiz covers the basics of institutions, including their definitions and types, as well as an introduction to theories, including how to study them and their different types.

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