Define the sociological imagination. Discuss why this is an important aspect of sociology and how we can use it to help connect with others.
What will be an ideal response?
The sociological imagination is a form of self-consciousness that allows us to go beyond our immediate environments (of family, neighborhood, work) and understand the major structural transformations that have occurred and are occurring. It helps us make the connection between history and biography, between our own society and our private lives, and become aware of all individuals in similar circumstances. In short, the sociological imagination allows us to see our personal troubles as social problems. In this way, we are not only able to confront social problems, but we are also aware of the social problems' origins. Using the sociological imagination allows us to better understand other individuals' experiences and, therefore, be of service to them.
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As of 2007, the median family income for Vietnamese Americans was approximately
a) $25,000. b) $35,000. c) $45,000. d) $55,000.
Values, , and personal factors are three sources of research topics
a. changing social and political climate b. intellectual curiosity c. the availability of funding d. changing social and political climate as well as intellectual curiosity e. intellectual curiosity as well as the availability of funding
According to the text, most people
a. are aware that they lack freedom. b. are completely controlled by others. c. have absolute control over their own lives. d. have an exaggerated idea of how much freedom they have.
Which of the following is an example of material culture?
A. Communications B. Norms C. Technology D. Ideas