Module 5: How Society is Organized Flashcards
Social System
A model of social relationships in which each part is interdependent and interconnected
Social Organization/Social Structure
Foundation underlying the network of organized relationships among the parts of a social system
Social category
Collection of individuals with at least one thing in common but do not interact
Social aggregates
Collection of individuals at the same place at the same time but have nothing in common and do not interact
Social group
Two or more humans who interact with one another, share similar characteristics and have a sense of unity
Types of Groups
Primary Groups: small social group whose members share close, personal enduring relationships
Secondary Groups: large groups whose relationships are impersonal and goal oriented
Reference Group
Groups individuals compare themselves to
Social Network
Totality of relationships that link you to other individuals and groups and through them to other groups and individuals
Social Network Theory
Views social relationships in terms of nodes (individual persons) and ties (relationships between the persons)
In-Group
Social group or category to which an individual feels loyalty and belongingness
Out group
A social group or category with which an individual does not identify himself or herself
Group Bias
Positive attitudes or preferences between certain members of an in-group
In-group favoritism
Preference for one’s group over outsiders
Social Identity Theory
individual’s sense of identity from being a member of a social group
Intergroup Aggression
Harmful behavior directed at out-group members
Interaction
Behavior or action that is symbolic or has meaning
Instrumental leaders
Carry out their roles at the expense of other members
Expressive Leaders
Seek to maintain and improve social relationships
Formal Organizations
Groups designed for particular purposes and maximum efficiency
Bureaucracy
Hierarchal system for rationally coordinating the work of many individuals through division of labor
Features: Specialization, Hierarchy of position, Rules and regulations, Technical competence, Impersonality, Formal and written communications
McDonaldization
Process by which McDonald’s principles dominate more and more of society
Efficiency: maximizing the most optimum method for achieving goals
Calculability: drives the value or quality of products and services based on quantity
Predictability: products and services are the same regardless of time and place offered
Control: prescription of roles to fulfill subject to technology and social expectations
