Theories of Social Power

Description: This quiz is designed to assess your understanding of the various theories of social power. It covers topics such as the different types of power, the sources of power, and the effects of power on individuals and society.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: sociology social theory power
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Which theory of social power emphasizes the role of social networks and relationships in determining an individual's power?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Network Theory

  4. Symbolic Interactionism


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Network Theory posits that an individual's power is derived from their position within a social network and the resources and support they can access through those connections.

According to Max Weber, what are the three main types of legitimate power?

  1. Traditional, Charismatic, and Legal

  2. Economic, Political, and Military

  3. Social, Cultural, and Religious

  4. Formal, Informal, and Coercive


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Weber's theory of legitimate power distinguishes between traditional power (based on custom and tradition), charismatic power (based on exceptional personal qualities), and legal power (based on formal rules and procedures).

Which theory of social power focuses on the ability of individuals to influence others through persuasion and communication?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Symbolic Interactionism

  4. Social Identity Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Symbolic Interactionism emphasizes the role of symbols, language, and shared meanings in social interaction and argues that power is negotiated and constructed through communication.

According to Steven Lukes, what is the third dimension of power?

  1. Decision-making power

  2. Agenda-setting power

  3. Ideological power

  4. Coercive power


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Lukes' third dimension of power refers to the ability of dominant groups to shape the beliefs, values, and norms of society in a way that benefits them and maintains their power.

Which theory of social power emphasizes the role of resources and control over resources in determining an individual's power?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Network Theory

  4. Symbolic Interactionism


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Resource Dependency Theory posits that power is derived from control over resources that are valued and scarce, and that individuals and groups can use these resources to influence others.

According to Michel Foucault, what is the primary mechanism through which power is exercised in modern societies?

  1. Discipline

  2. Surveillance

  3. Normalization

  4. Governmentality


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Foucault's theory of power emphasizes the role of discipline and surveillance in shaping individuals' behavior and maintaining social order.

Which theory of social power focuses on the role of social identity and group membership in determining an individual's power?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Social Identity Theory

  4. Symbolic Interactionism


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Social Identity Theory posits that individuals derive power from their membership in social groups and that they are motivated to maintain and enhance their group's status and identity.

According to Talcott Parsons, what are the two main types of power?

  1. Instrumental and Expressive

  2. Traditional and Charismatic

  3. Legitimate and Coercive

  4. Formal and Informal


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Parsons' theory of power distinguishes between instrumental power (the ability to achieve goals) and expressive power (the ability to influence others through emotional appeals).

Which theory of social power emphasizes the role of social exchange and reciprocity in determining an individual's power?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Network Theory

  4. Symbolic Interactionism


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Social Exchange Theory posits that individuals engage in social interactions based on the expectation of rewards and costs, and that power is derived from the ability to control these rewards and costs.

According to Pierre Bourdieu, what are the three main forms of capital that confer power on individuals?

  1. Economic, Social, and Cultural

  2. Political, Military, and Religious

  3. Formal, Informal, and Coercive

  4. Traditional, Charismatic, and Legal


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Bourdieu's theory of social power emphasizes the role of economic, social, and cultural capital in determining an individual's power and status.

Which theory of social power focuses on the role of ideology and discourse in shaping and maintaining power relations?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Network Theory

  4. Discourse Theory


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Discourse Theory posits that power is exercised through the production and circulation of discourse, and that dominant groups use discourse to legitimize their power and marginalize alternative viewpoints.

According to Harold Lasswell, what are the three main elements of power?

  1. Decision-making, Agenda-setting, and Ideological

  2. Economic, Political, and Military

  3. Formal, Informal, and Coercive

  4. Traditional, Charismatic, and Legal


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Lasswell's theory of power emphasizes the role of decision-making, agenda-setting, and ideological control in determining an individual's or group's power.

Which theory of social power focuses on the role of social networks and relationships in determining an individual's power?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Network Theory

  4. Symbolic Interactionism


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Network Theory posits that an individual's power is derived from their position within a social network and the resources and support they can access through those connections.

According to Max Weber, what are the three main types of legitimate power?

  1. Traditional, Charismatic, and Legal

  2. Economic, Political, and Military

  3. Social, Cultural, and Religious

  4. Formal, Informal, and Coercive


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Weber's theory of legitimate power distinguishes between traditional power (based on custom and tradition), charismatic power (based on exceptional personal qualities), and legal power (based on formal rules and procedures).

Which theory of social power focuses on the ability of individuals to influence others through persuasion and communication?

  1. Social Exchange Theory

  2. Resource Dependency Theory

  3. Symbolic Interactionism

  4. Social Identity Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Symbolic Interactionism emphasizes the role of symbols, language, and shared meanings in social interaction and argues that power is negotiated and constructed through communication.

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