Understanding Social Structure

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Questions and Answers

In the context of social structures, how does the concept of individual agency relate to the 'state of your life'?

The 'state of your life' is solely determined by individual choices, unaffected by broader social structures.
Individual agency, shaped by societal constraints, significantly influences one's circumstances, aligning with a conservative ideology. (correct)
Individual agency only applies to certain socioeconomic classes, while others are exclusively shaped by social structures.
Individual agency is irrelevant as deterministic social structures decide one's life irrespective of personal choices.

Which of the following highlights the relationship between ethnography and the evolution of culture?

Ethnographic studies are unnecessary since cultures are static and unaffected by historical events.
Ethnography enhances the impact of historical events, shaping the cultural landscape.
Ethnography observes present cultural manifestations while acknowledging the formative influence of history on culture. (correct)
Ethnography focuses solely on present cultural practices, ignoring historical contexts.

How do social structures influence individual agency within a society, according to the text?

Social structures enable complete autonomy, allowing individuals to act without societal constraints.
Social structures universally oppress individuals, eliminating the potential for personal influence or agency.
Social structures can empower as well as disempower, influencing the extent to which individuals can shape their paths. (correct)
Social structures and individual agency operate independently, without mutual influence.

How does 'structural violence' relate to the characteristics of social structure?

Structural violence highlights how historical and systemic injustices are embedded within social structures. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In what capacity do formalized laws and official entities contribute to social structure?

Formalized laws and official entities are integral to social structure; they also include basic social rules. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How can resources impact the hierarchy of social structures?

When resources are easily accessible, more hierarchy exist than when resources are scarce. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does respect for elders play within the cultural and social structures of Somali society, as inferred from the text?

Respect for elders in Somali culture encourages open debate and relatively democratic practices. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of 'The Great Wealth Transfer' imply regarding social structure and generational wealth?

'The Great Wealth Transfer' perpetuates existing social inequalities and shapes opportunities across generations. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which factors contribute to the organization of social status within the U.S.?

Economic status, gender inequality, race, and age influence social status in the U.S. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Given that 'hierarchical organization of status in a group' is a component of social structure, why might its inevitability be debated?

Hierarchies could conflict with values of equality and fairness, leading to debates about whether they are necessary or justified. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How do social and environmental conditions relate to social structure?

Social structure is loosely related to environmental conditions like resource availability and population density. (A) Signup and view all the answers

If social structures are not simply oppressive, according to the text, what potential role do they play?

Social structures can empower and disempower different people and groups. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What are considered the two components of social structure?

Hierarchical organization of status in a group and rules/principles regulating behavior (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the phrase, 'Structural violence is historical'?

The phrase denotes the systemic ways in which social structures cause harm which has evolved over time. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the Amhara culture express respect to authority?

They speak indirectly and carefully. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between rules, principles and behavior?

Rules and principles have the objective to regulate behavior. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How may a group's humanity be bound to destroying any way alone?

Humanity is bound to destroy any way alone, and one can't change their ways without solidarity. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Other than formalized laws and official entities, what else is included in institutions?

Instiutions also include general social rules. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes how the concepts of individual agency and social structure interact, based on the information provided?

An individual's ability to make independent choices is primarily shaped by the conditions established by the existing social structure. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In what way might cultural mores affect interpersonal relations, particularly in showing respect to superiors as explained in the context of Amhara culture?

Norms in the culture dictate that authority should always be approached indirectly, through careful and indirect expressions. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Conservative Ideology in the U.S.

The state of your life is a result of individual agency and choices.

Two Components of Social Structure

Combined, these provide a sense of role in a group and predictability, enabling us to function.