Basic ideas and terms

Question 1

What does the term ‘Values’ mean?

Answer 1

general beliefs about what’s right and wrong, and about the important standards which are worth maintaining and achieving in any society and social group.

Question 2

What does the term ‘Norms’ mean?

Answer 2

Social rules which define the correct and acceptable behaviour in a society and social group to which people are expected to conform.

Question 3

What does the term ‘Customs’ mean? And what are some examples?

Answer 3

Norms which have lasted for a long time and have become a part of society’s traditions.
Kissing under the mistletoe at Christmas, buying and giving easter eggs or lighting candles at Divali are typical customs found in Britain

Question 4

What does the term ‘Ascribed status’ mean?

Answer 4

Status given at birth or family background, which, in general, cannot be changed by individuals

Question 5

What does the term ‘Achieved status’ mean?

Answer 5

Status that is achieved by someone’s own work

Question 6

What does the term ‘Sociological perspectives’ mean?

Answer 6

Sociological perspectives involves a set of theories which influences what is looked at when studying sociology