BA Social Sciences Foundation 3

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Human motivation, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization

Answer

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).

Question 2

In sociology, what is a 'social institution'?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Ethnocentrism

Answer

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.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

BA - Bachelor of Arts Degree Practice Test

BA - Bachelor of Arts Degree Practice Test

BA Social Sciences Foundation 3