Chapter 1&2 - Intro to Deviance

Question 1

Sociological Imagination

Answer 1

Mills argues that to comprehend an individual’s actions, we must consider historical, institutional, and societal factors.

For example, if someone is unemployed, they might think it’s purely their fault. However, using the sociological imagination, one can see how broader factors like economic downturns, automation, or education systems influence unemployment rates.

Question 2

Subculture

Answer 2

A subculture is a smaller cultural group within a larger society that shares distinct beliefs, values, behaviors, and interests that set it apart from the dominant culture.

EG: Hip hop Culture

Question 3

Elite deviance

Answer 3

refers to wrongful acts committed by political, economic, or corporate elites that harm society but often go unpunished due to their power and influence.

Question 4

Corporate deviance

Answer 4

Corporate deviance involves illegal or unethical actions by businesses or organizations to increase profits, reduce costs, or maintain power.

Question 5

Different sociologists categorize deviance as

Answer 5

Objectively Given (Normative View) – Deviance as rule-breaking behavior.

Subjectively Problematic (Relativist View) – Deviance as behavior labeled by society.