Question 1

The culture of poverty theory suggests that poverty is the result of an individual's dysfunctional behaviors, attitudes, and values. Anthropologists have strongly challenged this idea, arguing that poverty is a structural problem. What do they say this results from?

Accepted Answer

Anthropologists argue that poverty is a structural problem resulting from the dysfunctional aspects of the entire economic system, which perpetuates unequal distribution of resources and opportunities.

Question 2

Cochabamba street vendors, known as ambulantes,

Accepted Answer

Cochabamba street vendors, known as ambulantes, participate in the informal economy, meaning they operate outside of formal government regulations and do not pay taxes or comply with formal labor laws.

Question 3

The dramatic increases in debt and student loan costs have helped perpetuate what aspect of life in U.S. society?

Accepted Answer

The dramatic increases in debt and student loan costs have perpetuated the culture of consumption in the U.S., where people often rely on credit in order to maintain a certain standard of living.

Question 4

In Mumbai, how do people without permanent, legally-recognized residences gain access to water?

Accepted Answer

People without permanent, legally-recognized residences in Mumbai often use social relationships to access water and may illegally tap into public pipes. This is known as "informal" water access, and it is a common practice in many cities around the world. While bottled water is an option, it may not be the most affordable or sustainable choice for those who are struggling financially. It is also unlikely that hotels would provide free water to people in need, and while municipal services are available, they may not always reach informal settlements. Therefore, option B is the most likely choice.

Question 5

The Harlem Birthright Project revealed how health problems and infant mortality:

Accepted Answer

The Harlem Birthright Project found that health problems and infant mortality were linked to inequality of resources, institutionalized racism, and gender discrimination. This reveals the importance of intersectional thinking in understanding the root causes of these issues and addressing them effectively. Sojourner Syndrome is not a recognized medical condition related to health problems or infant mortality, and there is no indication that these issues have been completely solved through the intersectional approach.

Question 6

Which of the following is true about inequality on a global level?

Accepted Answer

While there is enough food in the world to feed everyone, there are still millions of people who remain malnourished due to inequalities in distribution and access. This is a major issue on a global level. Options A and B are incorrect as they make sweeping generalizations about poor and rich countries respectively, while option C is also incorrect as technological advances do not necessarily benefit everyone equally in the global economy.

Question 7

Reciprocity:

Accepted Answer

Reciprocity, the exchange of goods or services between individuals or groups, can have long-term benefits for the group. By exchanging resources, individuals can strengthen social bonds and create a sense of community, which can in turn lead to increased cooperation and improved chances for survival.

Question 8

Which of the following is a criticism of the "culture of poverty" approach?

Accepted Answer

The "culture of poverty" approach has been criticized for assuming that certain behaviors, values, and attitudes are inherent to poverty, without considering that these may actually be reactions to the conditions of poverty rather than inherent characteristics of a so-called "culture of poverty."

Question 9

Pem Davidson Buck's Worked to the Bone (2001) found that in Kentucky,

Accepted Answer

Pem Davidson Buck's research in "Worked to the Bone" highlights how class can limit the benefits of white privilege, particularly for poor white laborers in Kentucky.

Question 10

Egalitarian societies are likely to practice:

Accepted Answer

Egalitarian societies prioritize equality and fairness among members. Reciprocity, or the exchange of goods or services without the expectation of immediate or equal return, is a key feature of such societies. Hierarchy, violence, and stratification are not compatible with egalitarian values.

Question 11

At a reception for the new junior associates, Matthew bonded with a partner of his law firm over their shared passion for fine French wines, a taste his parents instilled in him. Mathew was assigned to work with that partner, which resulted in Matthew receiving a promotion. How would Pierre Bourdieu explain this?

Accepted Answer

Pierre Bourdieu's theory of cultural capital explains how individuals who possess knowledge, skills, and tastes that are valued by society are more likely to succeed and advance in their careers. Matthew's shared passion for fine French wines with a partner at his firm demonstrates his possession of cultural capital, which he used to build a connection and ultimately further his career.

Question 12

What do we call the total value of what someone owns, including stocks, bonds, and real estate, minus any debt?

Accepted Answer

The total value of what someone owns, including stocks, bonds, and real estate, minus any debt is known as their wealth.

Question 13

Mr. Turner owns a nuclear power plant that sells electricity to the residents of Springville. He is a member of the:

Accepted Answer

Mr. Turner is the owner of a nuclear power plant, which makes him a member of the bourgeoisie or the capitalist class, who own and control the means of production. They are a small but economically powerful class that exploits the labor of the proletariat or working class to generate profits.

Question 14

A factory that manufactures cars for sale and land to grow food on are examples of:

Accepted Answer

The answer of A factory that manufactures cars for sale...

Question 15

Toma is a Ju/Huansi, who grew up in a hunter-gatherer society. He tells you about a successful hunt he went on as a young man during which he killed an animal large enough to supply many meals. When he returned home, he most likely:

Accepted Answer

The answer of Toma is a Ju/Huansi, who grew up...

Question 16

Your roommate always offers you a slice of pizza when he orders delivery. Sometimes you wash all the dishes, even though you didn't use them all. Neither of you ask for money. Your actions are examples of:

Accepted Answer

The actions described suggest a pattern of reciprocity where both parties are voluntarily giving and receiving without a formal exchange or expectation of immediate repayment. This is a common practice in many social relationships, including roommates or friends.

Question 17

Hydraulic citizenship is:

Accepted Answer

Hydraulic citizenship refers to the right of individuals to access clean water and sanitation. It is based on the understanding that access to water is a fundamental human right, and therefore, everyone should have access to it.

Question 18

According to Karl Marx, the capitalist class increase their wealth through:

Accepted Answer

According to Karl Marx, the capitalist class increases their wealth by extracting surplus labor value from the workers. This means that workers are paid for only a portion of the value they produce, and the excess value goes to the capitalist class as profits. This is often referred to as "exploitation" in Marxist theory. Intense competition, selling labor to the bourgeoisie, and meritocracy are not the primary ways that Marx believed capitalists increase their wealth.

Question 19

Young Bobby opened a lemonade stand in his front yard. He used $4 worth of lemons, sugar, and cups, and paid his little sister $1 to operate the stand while he played. She sold 7 cups of lemonade for $1 each. What was the surplus value?

Accepted Answer

The revenue from selling 7 cups of lemonade at $1 each is $7. 
The cost of supplies and paying his sister is $4+$1=$5. 
Therefore, the surplus value is $7-$5=$2. 
Hence, the best answer is D.

Question 20

The Ju/Hoansi of the Kalihari are:

Accepted Answer

The Ju/Hoansi of the Kalihari are known to have an egalitarian society where there is no formal leadership or hierarchy, and decisions are made through consensus among the group.

Quiz 10: Class and Inequality