Chapter 3 Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is the hypothesis of linguistic relativity?
The theory that the structure of a language affects its speakers’ worldview or cognition.
This concept suggests that people who speak different languages perceive and think about the world differently.
Define norms in sociology.
Social rules that define acceptable behavior within a society.
Norms can be classified into folkways, mores, and taboos.
What are folkways?
Casual norms that govern everyday behavior.
They are often not strictly enforced and can vary by culture.
Define mores.
Norms that are widely observed and have great moral significance.
Violating mores can lead to serious consequences.
What are values?
Cultural standards that help define what is good, desirable, and proper in society.
Values guide behavior and can vary significantly between cultures.
Define beliefs.
Specific ideas that people hold to be true.
Beliefs can be based on religion, tradition, or personal experience.
What are taboos?
Strong prohibitions against certain actions or behaviors.
Taboos are often rooted in cultural or religious beliefs.
What are sanctions?
Responses to behavior that reinforce norms, which can be formal or informal.
Formal sanctions are enforced by official institutions, while informal sanctions arise from social interactions.
Define society.
A group of individuals who share a common culture and live in a defined geographical area.
Societies can vary in size and complexity.
What are instincts in sociology?
Innate drives that direct behavior.
Instincts are biologically based and often influence social behaviors.
Define reflexes.
Automatic responses to stimuli.
Reflexes are typically involuntary and occur without conscious thought.
What are drives?
Biological urges that motivate behavior.
Drives can include hunger, thirst, and the need for companionship.
Define culture.
The shared practices, values, and beliefs of a group.
Culture encompasses both material and nonmaterial aspects.
What is material culture?
Physical objects and artifacts created by a society.
Examples include tools, clothing, and buildings.
Define nonmaterial culture.
The intangible aspects of a culture, such as beliefs, values, and norms.
Nonmaterial culture shapes how people interact and understand the world.
What are symbols in culture?
Objects, gestures, sounds, or images that represent something else.
Symbols are crucial for communication and meaning-making.
Define language in the context of culture.
A system of symbols and rules that allows for communication.
Language is a key component of culture and influences thought.
What is cultural relativism?
The practice of understanding a culture on its own terms without judgment.
Cultural relativism promotes tolerance and appreciation of cultural differences.
Define subcultures.
Groups within a larger culture that have distinct values and norms.
Subcultures can exist within various social contexts, like youth culture or ethnic groups.
What is folk culture?
Traditional cultural practices of a specific group.
Folk culture often includes customs, crafts, and oral traditions.
Define pop culture.
Mainstream cultural practices and products that are widely consumed.
Pop culture is often influenced by mass media and trends.
What are countercultures?
Cultural groups that reject and oppose the dominant culture.
Countercultures often promote alternative values and lifestyles.
Define multiculturalism.
The coexistence of diverse cultures in a society.
Multiculturalism encourages appreciation and respect for cultural differences.
What is culture shock?
The feeling of disorientation experienced when encountering a different culture.
Culture shock can affect individuals when moving to a new cultural environment.
