Introduction to Sociology

Question 7 Answer: they allow for movement between the classes
An open system is based on achievement and is to some degree meritocratic in that it allows for movement and interaction between different class statuses.
Question 8 Answer: People cannot change their social standings
A closed system is one where no socioeconomic mobility is possible, and meritocratic advancement is not an option.
Question 9 Answer: chattel slavery
Question 10 Answer: debt slavery
This phrase refers to an arrangement where workers are trapped in a cycle of poverty that is reinforced by the dominant company controlling one’s laboring, consuming, and residential conditions.
Question 11 Answer: earn a pay raise for doing excellent work.
A meritocracy emphasizes advancement and reward through the demonstration of ability.
Question 12 Answer: middle class
While most Americans consider themselves middle class, Pew Research reported in 2015 that only 50% actually qualified based on income.
Question 13 Answer: a college dropout launches an online company that earns millions in its first year.
This example describes a situation where a lower class individual experiences upward mobility and joins the affluent upper class.
Question 14 Answer: life changes
This phrase refers to one’s prospects for upward socioeconomic mobility based on a range of determinative person, familial, and societal factors.
Question 15 Answer: open
An open system allows for movement and interaction between different layers and classes based on demonstrable achievement.
Question 16 Answer: a large group moves up or down the class ladder due to societal changes.
This phrase refers to when societal changes enable a whole group of people to move up or down the social class ladder.
Question 17 Answer: an executive belongs to a different class than her parents.
This example describes an individual who has moved up or down the socioeconomic ladder within his or her own family.