Glossary

Question 1

Consensus theory

Answer 1

Theories that see people in society as having a consensus (where everyone agrees) on norms and values

Question 2

The organic analogy

Answer 2

The organic analogy is used by Durkheim in his functionalist theory of society. Society functions much like the body, it is an organic system that is self maintained and self supporting and helps in maintaining other aspects of society.

Question 3

Primary socialisation

Answer 3

Primary socialization in sociology is the period early in a person’s life during which they initially learn and build themselves through experiences and interactions around them.

Question 4

Secondary socialisation

Answer 4

Secondary socialization refers to the process of learning what is the appropriate behavior as a member of a smaller group within the larger society.

Secondary socialization takes place outside the home. It is where children and adults learn how to act in a way that is appropriate for the situations they are in.

Question 5

Value consensus

Answer 5

(a shared set of norms and values) into which, thanks to various social institutions, the vast majority in a society have been socialised.

Question 6

Anomie

Answer 6

A lack of the usual social or ethical standards in an individual or group.

Question 7

Meritocracy

Answer 7

a society governed by people selected according to merit.

Question 8

Conflict theory

Answer 8

Conflict theory views social and economic institutions as tools of the struggle between groups or classes, used to maintain inequality and the dominance of the ruling class.

Question 9

Proletariat

Answer 9

the lowest or one of the lowest economic and social classes in a society.

Question 10

Bourgeoisie

Answer 10

The bourgeoisie is the property-owning class who own the means of production (e.g. factories) and employ and exploit the proletariat.

Question 11

Ideology

Answer 11

The Marxist concept of ideology is a word to describe a set of ideas and beliefs that are dominant in society - used to justify the power and privilege of the ruling class.

Question 12

False consciousness

Answer 12

this state of mind prevents individuals from combining their efforts and taking action to have a better life than they currently have.

Question 13

Ideological state apparatus

Answer 13

Preparing working-class pupils to accept a life of exploitation.

Question 14

Hidden curriculum

Answer 14

The unwritten rules/ values reinforcing societal norms in education.