Question 1

Mead's belief that modern societies are characterized by a greater degree of complexity and functional interdependence is similar to which other classical theorist's ideas?

Accepted Answer

Emilé Durkheim also believed that modern societies have a greater degree of complexity and specialization, leading to functional interdependence among individuals and social institutions. He referred to this as the "division of labor" and believed that it was necessary for society to function efficiently.

Question 2

The highly developed, "global" ability to take the attitude of the other found expression in the creation of which group during Mead's time?

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Question 3

Define the three significant theoretical influences on Mead's work, making sure to show where their influence shows within Mead's work.

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Question 4

Assuming the attitude of the generalized other allows us to realize abstract ideals such as freedom, individual rights, and fairness.

Accepted Answer

Assuming the attitude of the generalized other means taking into account the perspectives and expectations of society as a whole, allowing us to understand and strive towards abstract ideals that are valued by society, such as freedom, individual rights, and fairness.

Question 5

Discuss Mead's view of the relationship between self-control and social control.

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Question 6

What is the solution for when social control - through taking the attitude of the other - while necessary for sustaining a democratic society, must not impede the development of individual expression and the opportunity to realize one's potential?

Accepted Answer

The concept of the "generalized other" in sociology refers to the understanding of societal norms, values, and expectations that individuals internalize and use to guide their behavior. This is necessary for social control in a democratic society, but it also allows for individual expression and the ability to realize one's potential within the framework of societal expectations. This balance between social control and individual freedom is key to a healthy society.

Question 7

Viewing ourselves as an object is the phase of the self Mead termed the "I."

Accepted Answer

The phase of the self Mead termed the "I" is actually the subjective, spontaneous part of the self that initiates action and is not yet shaped by social norms and expectations. The phase in which we view ourselves as an object is the "Me."

Question 8

Define significant symbols and provide a concrete contemporary example of the concept.

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Question 9

The key to creating a universal democracy lies in the evolution of which process?

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Question 10

The play stage is marked by the ability to assume the roles of multiple others simultaneously.

Accepted Answer

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Question 11

Gestures only have meaning if the other person responds to your intended result as you responded in your mind.

Accepted Answer

Gestures are a form of nonverbal communication, but they only convey meaning if the receiver interprets them the same way the sender intended. If the receiver misinterprets the gesture, it may not have the intended meaning. Therefore, gestures only have meaning when there is a mutual understanding between the sender and receiver.

Question 12

Unlike Marx or Weber, Mead granted little attention to categories such as institutions, class or status.

Accepted Answer

George Herbert Mead focused more on symbolic interactionism, emphasizing micro-level social interactions and the development of the self through communication, rather than macro-level structures like institutions, class, or status.

Question 13

Our ability to think symbolically allows us to mentally rehearse lines of action without actually performing them.

Accepted Answer

Our ability to use symbols, such as words and images, allows us to visualize and plan actions in our minds without physically performing them. This is a crucial cognitive skill that allows us to problem-solve, learn new tasks, and make decisions.

Question 14

The self exists with the capacity to be both subject and object to one's self.

Accepted Answer

The self has the ability to not only experience the world around it as an object, but also to reflect upon and be aware of itself as a subject. This is known as self-awareness.

Question 15

In Society, Mead draws upon the liberal mythology of which nation?

Accepted Answer

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Question 16

Without the "I," social life would be dynamic and relentlessly non-conformist.

Accepted Answer

The "I" in sociological terms refers to the individual aspect of the self, which contributes to social dynamics by allowing for personal reactions and interpretations. Without the "I," social life might actually become more conformist, as it would lack individual spontaneity and creativity.

Question 17

According to Mead what is the "threefold relationship" that generates meaning?

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Question 18

Explain what Mead is referring to in Mind when he states "…it is the distinctive thing in human intelligence which is not found in animal intelligence."

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Question 19

For Mead, the individual and the society to which she belongs are mutually dependent.

Accepted Answer

Mead's theory of symbolic interactionism argues that the individual and the society are not separate entities but rather they are mutually dependent. According to Mead, the self is not something that is already present at birth but is developed through interaction with others in society. Therefore, the individual is shaped by society and, in turn, contributes to the shaping of society.

Question 20

Significant symbols are those which hold special meaning for the introverted individual.

Accepted Answer

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Quiz 8: George Herbert Mead