Question 1

Which theory emphasizes that a global level, because the environmental problems are everyone's problems, such challenges forces countries to work together to find common solutions?

Accepted Answer

Functionalism emphasizes that society is like a living organism, where each part has a specific function to help the system work as a whole. In the case of environmental problems, functionalists argue that since such issues affect everyone, countries must work together to find common solutions to ensure the survival and well-being of society as a whole. Therefore, functionalism emphasizes the need for global cooperation to solve environmental issues.

Question 2

With its emphasis on addressing social injustice, The Green New Deal is relevant for this sociological approach to the environment.

Accepted Answer

The emphasis on addressing social injustice in The Green New Deal aligns with the Conflict Theory perspective, which focuses on the unequal distribution of power and resources and how they contribute to social inequality and conflict. The Green New Deal seeks to address environmental issues while also addressing economic and social inequalities, which is a key focus of conflict theory.

Question 3

These theorists posit that inherent to capitalism is the belief that pollution and resource overuse are not as important as profit and are indeed necessary evils.

Accepted Answer

Conflict theory emphasizes the importance of power and inequality in society. In the case of capitalism, those who hold power (i.e. the bourgeoisie) prioritize profit over environmental concerns, which ultimately leads to pollution and resource depletion. This is seen as a necessary evil in order to maximize profit and maintain their dominant position in society.

Question 4

Because the scientific community has not definitively determined the extent of the climate change problem and the future outcome, this perspective helps us to understand why it is difficult to garner public and political consensus.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Because the scientific community has not definitively...

Question 5

This academic subfield studies interactions between societies and their natural environments.

Accepted Answer

Environmental Sociology is the academic subfield that studies the relationship between societies and their natural environments. It examines how human activities affect the environment, as well as how environmental conditions impact societies and cultures. This includes studying topics such as climate change, resource depletion, pollution, and conservation efforts.

Question 6

What is one key line of thinking for addressing climate change?

Accepted Answer

Ecosystem restoration via forestry and agricultural practices has been thought to be one of the key strategies in addressing climate change as trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, sustainable agricultural practices can help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving soil quality and biodiversity, and increasing productivity. The other options: A, C, and D can be part of climate change mitigation strategies but they may not be the only solution and may have some economic or social challenges.

Question 7

Covering city lands with vegetation of any kind is known as the creation of

Accepted Answer

The term used to describe the covering of city lands with vegetation of any kind is referred to as "urban green spaces." While community gardens and open spaces may both involve the creation of vegetation within a city, they are not necessarily applicable to all instances of plant-based urban development. "Vegetation co-ops" is not a commonly used phrase for this concept.

Question 8

One specific and realistic way that individuals might consider contributing to reducing environmental stress is

Accepted Answer

Reducing single-use plastics is a practical and achievable step for many individuals to lessen their environmental impact, as it addresses the issue of plastic pollution directly.

Question 9

There is evidence that the amount of plastic dumped into landfills and the ocean can be reduced by as much as _____, provided there are mechanisms created to encourage reusing and recycling plastic products.

Accepted Answer

Studies and environmental initiatives have shown that with effective recycling and reuse programs, the amount of plastic waste entering landfills and oceans can potentially be reduced by up to 50%.

Question 10

Which of the following is not one of the ways suggested in the chapter that individuals could contribute to environmental change?

Accepted Answer

Burying or burning waste in your own backyard is not a safe or effective way to contribute to environmental change. It can lead to pollution of soil, air, and water, and it is not a sustainable practice. The other options - carrying reusable bags, volunteering in clean-up events, and being active in local recycling efforts - are all good ways to contribute to environmental change.

Quiz 14: Whats That Smell the Environmental Crisis