Sociology 545 – Sample Questions

Example of a general question

1. Outline the critical argument that human behavior is cognitively mediated. Argue this from several different viewpoints, being careful to articulate the key terms in each viewpoint. Even if such an argument is true, why would it be relevant?

Example of a specific question

2. Dialectic is a key phrase describing the potential relevance of Symbolic Interaction theory to a social psychological approach to human behavior. Discuss this relevance, focusing on alternative dialectics found in Mead, Cooley, Kuhn, Turner and Goffman.

Example of a comparative question

3. Thibaut & Kelley suggest that the concepts of CL and CL_alt go a long way in explaining power and dependence in relationships. How might this relate to the concepts of equity and inequity? Do you see any relevance to the ideas of cognitive consistency and attribution in this regard? If so, what parallels can you draw between social exchange and attribution theory?