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Introduction to Sociology 3e

Short Answer

Introduction to Sociology 3eShort Answer

17.1 Power and Authority

1.

Explain why leaders as divergent as Hitler and Jesus Christ are both categorized as charismatic authorities.

2.

Why do people accept traditional authority figures even though these types of leaders have limited means of enforcing their power?

3.

Charismatic leaders are among the most fascinating figures in history. Select a charismatic leader about whom you wish to learn more and conduct online research to find out about this individual. Then write a paragraph describing the personal qualities that led to this person’s influence, considering the society in which he or she emerged.

17.2 Forms of Government

4.

Do you feel the United States has become an oligarchy? Why, or why not?

5.

Explain how an absolute monarchy differs from a dictatorship.

6.

In which form of government do average citizens have the least political power? What options might they have for exerting political power under this type of regime?

17.3 Politics in the United States

7.

If the percentage of Asian Americans in Congress is far below the percentage of Asian Americans in the United States, does that mean Asian Americans lack political power? Why or why not?

8.

Explain how a voter’s social class can affect his or her voting practices.

9.

Besides voting, how can U.S. citizens influence political processes and outcomes? Which of these strategies have you personally used?

17.4 Theoretical Perspectives on Government and Power

10.

What is one criticism of functionalism?

11.

Explain what is meant by the term power elite. Consider its original intention as coined by C. Wright Mills as well as your understanding of it.

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