Sociology Quiz 6 - Meritocracy and Reference

Questions and Answers

What is the definition of meritocracy?

A status-based regime in which advancement is unlikely.

The authoritarian devalue of an employee.

A bureaucracy where membership and advancement is based on proven and documented skills. (correct)

The removal of personal feelings from a professional situation.

How can 'reference groups' be defined?

Groups a person belongs to and feels are an integral part of his or her identity.

Groups which consist of people for whom an individual feels great disdain.

People who share similar characteristics but who are not connected in any way.

Groups to which an individual compares himself or herself. (correct)

In the scenario, what role does Michael's basketball team serve for him?

Out-group

Secondary group

Aggregate

Reference group (correct)

When Justin enrolls in community college, he is becoming a member of which type of organization?

Utilitarian organization Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon is observed when Kevin finds familiar fast-food restaurants in Europe?

The McDonaldization of Society Signup and view all the answers

In Christine's Improvisation Comedy Troupe, what type of leader is she if she leaves the troupe to decide for themselves?

Laissez-faire Signup and view all the answers

What function do Grace's coworkers serve at the advertising agency?

Instrumental function Signup and view all the answers

What type of organization is the United States Government?

A bureaucracy Signup and view all the answers

What does the McDonaldization of Society refer to?

The increasing presence of the fast-food business model in common social institutions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a primary group and a secondary group?

A primary group is small, consisting of emotional face-to-face relationships; a secondary group is larger and impersonal. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Concepts and Definitions

Meritocracy: A system where advancement is based on proven and documented skills, rather than status or personal feelings.
Reference Groups: Groups used for self-comparison by individuals, playing a significant role in shaping attitudes and behaviors.
Role of Reference Group: Friends or peers, such as teammates, can shape behavior and decision-making in various social situations.

Organizational Types

Utilitarian Organization: An organization that individuals join for practical purposes, such as gaining specific skills or career advancement, exemplified by community colleges.
Bureaucracy: A formal, structured organization like the United States Government characterized by rules and a hierarchical structure.

Cultural Phenomena

McDonaldization of Society: Describes the spread of fast-food business principles into various aspects of societal structures, leading to standardized and efficient practices.

Leadership Styles

Laissez-faire Leadership: A hands-off approach where leaders give team members autonomy in decision-making, allowing self-direction in tasks.

Group Functionality

Instrumental Function: Refers to coworker roles that assist in achieving specific tasks or goals within an organizational setting.

Group Dynamics

Primary vs. Secondary Groups: Primary groups are small, characterized by emotional and face-to-face relationships, whereas secondary groups are larger and more impersonal.

Cultural Insights

Globalization and Brand Presence: The existence of international brands in foreign cities exemplifies the interconnectedness of global culture influenced by fast-food paradigms and consumerism.

Description

Test your understanding of key sociological concepts in this Sociology Quiz 6. Focus on terms like meritocracy and reference groups to evaluate your knowledge. Perfect for reviewing important definitions and theories in sociology.