Social Science
Cultural Psychology and Sociology
3,016 Questions
Cultural psychology examines how social norms, values, and practices shape individual behavior. Concepts like ethnocentrism, cultural relativism, and individualism are heavily tested. Develop a clear understanding of how cultural factors influence human cognition and group dynamics.
Cultural relativism conceptsEthnocentrism and beliefsSocial norms examplesCultural values in languageIndividualism in society
Cultural Psychology and Sociology Questions
Which of the following is an example of informal social control?
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Gossip
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Laws and regulations
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Social norms
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Values
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Gossip is an example of informal social control because it is a way for people to communicate about and evaluate each other's behavior.
According to cultural determinists, which of the following is a primary determinant of political systems?
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Economic factors
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Geographical factors
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Cultural factors
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Historical factors
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Cultural determinists argue that cultural factors, such as values, beliefs, and norms, play a dominant role in shaping political systems.
Which of the following is NOT a key component of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK)?
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Oral traditions and storytelling
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Scientific research and data analysis
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Observations and experiences of local communities
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Cultural beliefs and values related to the environment
B
Correct answer
Explanation
TEK is based on the accumulated knowledge and experiences of local communities over generations, passed down through oral traditions and cultural practices. It does not involve formal scientific research and data analysis.
The concept of 'ubuntu' in African cultures emphasizes the:
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Importance of individual achievement
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Interconnectedness of all living things
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Dominance of humans over nature
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Separation of humans from the natural world
B
Correct answer
Explanation
'Ubuntu' is a Bantu term that embodies the idea of interconnectedness and interdependence among all living things. It emphasizes the importance of community, cooperation, and respect for the natural world.
The concept of 'wilderness' is a:
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Universal cultural construct
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Product of Western culture
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Scientifically defined category
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Legal designation for protected areas
B
Correct answer
Explanation
The concept of 'wilderness' as a pristine, untouched natural area separate from human influence is a product of Western culture. It is not a universal cultural construct and may not be meaningful in other cultural contexts.
Which of the following is NOT a role of culture in shaping environmental attitudes and behaviors?
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Influences perceptions of the natural world
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Provides values and norms related to the environment
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Determines the availability of environmental resources
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Affects the distribution of environmental benefits and burdens
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Culture does not directly determine the availability of environmental resources, although it can influence how resources are used and managed.
Which concept refers to the idea that cultures should be understood in their own context?
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Cultural relativism
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Ethnocentrism
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Xenophobia
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Racism
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Cultural relativism is the idea that cultures should be understood in their own context, while ethnocentrism is the belief that one's own culture is superior to others, xenophobia is the fear of foreigners, and racism is the belief that one race is superior to another.
Which concept refers to the belief that one's own culture is superior to others?
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Xenophobia
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Ethnocentrism
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Racism
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Discrimination
B
Correct answer
Explanation
Ethnocentrism is the belief that one's own culture is superior to others, while xenophobia is the fear of foreigners, racism is the belief that one race is superior to another, and discrimination is the unfair treatment of a person or group based on their race, gender, religion, or other characteristics.
Which cultural factor is most influential in shaping transportation systems and mobility patterns?
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Economic development
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Social norms and values
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Political systems
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Technological advancements
B
Correct answer
Explanation
Social norms and values play a significant role in shaping transportation systems and mobility patterns. For example, cultural attitudes towards car ownership, public transportation, and walking can influence the development and use of transportation infrastructure.
Which cultural factor is most likely to lead to a high level of car ownership?
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Individualism
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Collectivism
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Materialism
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Environmentalism
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Individualism, which emphasizes personal freedom and independence, is often associated with a high level of car ownership. This is because cars provide individuals with a sense of autonomy and mobility.
Which cultural factor is most likely to lead to a high level of walking and cycling?
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Urbanization
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Suburbanization
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Environmentalism
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Car-centric culture
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Environmentalism, which emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment, is often associated with a high level of walking and cycling. This is because walking and cycling are seen as more environmentally friendly modes of transportation than driving.
The lineage system is important in many societies because it:
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provides a sense of identity and belonging
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regulates marriage and inheritance
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determines political power
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all of the above
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The lineage system is important in many societies because it provides a sense of identity and belonging, regulates marriage and inheritance, and determines political power.
In some cultures, it is customary to observe a period of mourning after the death of a loved one. What are some common ways in which people express their mourning?
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Wearing black or dark clothing
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Avoiding social gatherings and activities
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Crying and expressing grief
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All of the above
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Common ways in which people express their mourning include wearing black or dark clothing, avoiding social gatherings and activities, and crying and expressing grief.
Which theory of cultural pluralism emphasizes the importance of preserving distinct cultural identities and traditions within a diverse society?
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Assimilation Theory
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Melting Pot Theory
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Cultural Pluralism Theory
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Cultural Relativism Theory
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Cultural Pluralism Theory advocates for the preservation and celebration of diverse cultural identities and traditions within a society, recognizing their value and contribution to the overall social fabric.
Which theory of cultural pluralism emphasizes the importance of cultural interaction and exchange between different groups in a diverse society?
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Cultural Pluralism Theory
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Multiculturalism Theory
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Assimilation Theory
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Cultural Relativism Theory
B
Correct answer
Explanation
Multiculturalism Theory promotes cultural interaction and exchange between different groups in a diverse society, recognizing the value of cultural diversity and the potential for mutual learning and understanding.