final exam Flashcards
(37 cards)
Functionalism
A sociological theory that views society as a complex system with interdependent parts that work together to promote stability and social order.
- Example: Functionalists might see inequality as serving a purpose in motivating people to work harder or fill different societal roles.
Conflict Theory
A theory that focuses on the struggles between different social classes, emphasizing power dynamics and inequality.
- Example: Conflict theorists view stratification as a result of power struggles and exploitation by dominant groups.
Stratification
The hierarchical arrangement of individuals in society based on factors like wealth, income, and social status
Inequality
Unequal distribution of resources and opportunities among individuals or groups in society
Class
A group of people sharing similar economic and social positions.
- Example: Lower class, middle class, and upper class
Bourgeoisie
The capitalist class who own the means of production
Proletariat
The working class who sell their labor for wages
Status
Social prestige or honor attached to a person’s position in society
Symbolic Capital
Resources like prestige, recognition, or honor that can be used to gain advantages
Social Capital
The networks and relationships that provide individuals with social support and opportunities
Cultural Capital
Non-financial social assets like education, knowledge, and skills that influence social mobility
Income
Money earned through work, investments, or other sources.
Wealth
Total assets owned, including property and investments, minus debts.
Race
A social construct used to categorize people based on physical characteristics like skin color.
Ethnicity
Shared cultural heritage, traditions, and language of a group
Racialization
The process by which social, economic, and political processes assign racial identities to groups
Racial Projects
Initiatives or practices that construct racial meanings and redistribute resources along racial lines
Model Minority Myth
A stereotype portraying a specific racial or ethnic group as more successful, often used to downplay racism.
Structured Racism
Systematic inequality embedded in institutions and policies.
Accumulation/Dis-accumulation of Privilege
Processes by which advantages or disadvantages are built up over time due to systemic inequality
Racialized Space
Physical or social spaces associated with particular racial groups, often due to historical segregation.
Split Labor Market
A labor market divided by race, ethnicity, or class, often leading to unequal pay or opportunities
Gender
Socially constructed roles, behaviors, and attributes associated with being male or female
Sex
Biological differences between males and females.