Social Sciences Foundation Flashcards

What is Maslow's hierarchy of needs used to explain?

Answer: Human motivation, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization

Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a motivational theory proposing that humans must satisfy lower-order needs (food, safety) before pursuing higher-order needs (esteem, self-actualization).

In sociology, what is a 'social institution'?

Answer: An established system of roles and norms that meets fundamental societal needs

Social institutions—such as family, education, religion, and government—are organized systems of beliefs, norms, and roles that address society's core needs and functions.

Which concept describes the tendency to judge other cultures by the standards of one's own?

Answer: Ethnocentrism

Ethnocentrism is the tendency to view one's own culture as the norm and standard against which all others are measured and often found lacking.

What is the 'scientific method' as applied in social sciences?

Answer: A systematic process of observation, hypothesis formation, data collection, and conclusion

The scientific method provides a structured approach to inquiry that social scientists adapt—observation, question, hypothesis, research design, data collection, analysis, and conclusion.

In political science, what is a 'checks and balances' system?

Answer: A constitutional mechanism where branches of government limit each other's power

Checks and balances distributes governmental power across three branches—legislative, executive, judicial—so each can limit the others, preventing concentration of power.

What does 'supply and demand' determine in a free market economy?

Answer: The equilibrium price and quantity of goods and services

In a free market, the interaction of supply (producer willingness to sell) and demand (consumer willingness to buy) determines the equilibrium price and quantity.