15 MCQs on Social Structure and Social Stratification: Concept and Theories

1-What is social structure? a. A physical framework of buildings
b. A framework of relationships and institutions in society
c. A type of economic system
d. A political ideology

Answer: b

2-Which theory suggests that social stratification is essential for the functioning of society? a. Symbolic Interactionism
b. Conflict Theory
c. Structural-Functional Theory
d. World-System Theory

Answer: c

3-How does conflict theory view social stratification? a. As necessary for societal stability
b. As a result of power struggles
c. As a product of micro-level interactions
d. As a global economic system

Answer: b

4-What does symbolic interactionism focus on in relation to social stratification? a. Global perspectives
b. Micro-level interactions
c. Economic relationships
d. Power struggles

Answer: b

5-According to world-system theory, what are the categories of nations in the global economic system? a. Upper, middle, lower
b. Core, semi-peripheral, peripheral
c. Developed, developing, underdeveloped
d. First world, second world, third world

Answer: b

6-What does social mobility refer to? a. The ability to move to another country
b. The ability to move up or down the social hierarchy
c. The ability to change political systems
d. The ability to switch economic systems

Answer: b

7-Which theory emphasizes the role of symbols and language in shaping social hierarchies? a. Conflict Theory
b. Structural-Functional Theory
c. Symbolic Interactionism
d. World-System Theory

Answer: c

8-What is the term for the organized patterns of relationships and social institutions in a society? a. Social mobility
b. Social hierarchy
c. Social structure
d. Social inequality

Answer: c

9-In which theory do nations play specific roles in the global division of labor? a. Structural-Functional Theory
b. Conflict Theory
c. Symbolic Interactionism
d. World-System Theory

Answer: d

10-Which factor is NOT a basis for social stratification? a. Wealth
b. Power
c. Education
d. Religion

Answer: d

11-What does the conflict theory propose about the dominant class in society? a. They ensure stability by providing resources
b. They maintain power by suppressing lower classes
c. They encourage social mobility for all
d. They promote equality through economic policies

Answer: b

12-What does the term "social cohesion" refer to in the context of social stratification? a. A state of constant conflict
b. A sense of order and structure
c. A lack of diversity in society
d. An absence of social mobility

Answer: b

13-Which theory examines social stratification on a micro-level by focusing on everyday interactions? a. Structural-Functional Theory
b. Conflict Theory
c. Symbolic Interactionism
d. World-System Theory

Answer: c

14-What is the term for the ability of individuals or groups to move up or down the social hierarchy? a. Social hierarchy
b. Social mobility
c. Social structure
d. Social order

Answer: b

15-How does structural-functional theory view the roles within social stratification? a. As arbitrary and unjust
b. As necessary for societal functioning
c. As a result of power struggles
d. As insignificant in social dynamics

Answer: b