Question

Shortly after a state legalizes gambling in casinos, a formal coalition forms to oppose the building of any casinos in the major cities of the state. This scenario includes: I. conflict theory. II. social institutions. III. a social movement. (A) I only (B) I and III only (C) II and III only (D) I, II, and III

Short answer

The correct answer is (B) I and III only.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Key Concepts in the Scenario

Break down the scenario to identify the main elements: legalization of gambling, formation of a coalition to oppose casinos, and focus on major cities.

Understand Conflict Theory (I)

Conflict theory examines the struggles between different social groups with opposing interests. In this scenario, the coalition opposing casinos represents a group in conflict with those in favor of gambling legalization.

Recognize Social Institutions (II)

Social institutions are structures and mechanisms in society that govern behavior. Examples include the legal system, family, and education. The coalition may interact with social institutions but is not one in itself.

Define Social Movement (III)

A social movement is a collective effort by a large group of people to drive or resist change in society. The coalition forms to oppose the building of casinos, fitting the definition of a social movement.

Analyze the Scenario Against the Options

Option (A): Only conflict theory is relevant. Option (B): Conflict theory and social movement both apply. Option (C): Social institutions and social movement both apply, but the coalition is not a social institution. Option (D): All three apply, but the coalition is not a social institution.

Select the Correct Answer

Based on the above analysis, the scenario involves conflict theory (I) and a social movement (III), but not social institutions (II). Therefore, the correct answer is (B) I and III only.

Key concepts

conflict theory

Conflict theory is a fundamental sociological perspective that looks at society as a competition for limited resources. It suggests that society is in a state of perpetual conflict because of the competition for these resources. Here, social order is maintained by domination and power, rather than consensus and conformity. In the context of the provided exercise, conflict theory is seen in action through the clash between groups who support the legalization of gambling and those who oppose it. The coalition of people who form to oppose the casino build-out highlights how different social groups compete to control the social landscape. Conflict theory often examines:

• The causes of social inequality
• How power structures operate in society
• Who controls access to resources and opportunities

This theory can help students understand that the opposition to casinos isn't merely about gambling but also reflects deeper concerns about who holds power and whose interests are served in society.

social institutions

Social institutions are the organized sets of structures and mechanisms that govern behavior in society. These include the family, education systems, religious groups, and legal systems. They provide frameworks for social interaction and exert a significant influence on individuals' lives. Although the coalition opposing casinos interacts with social institutions like the legal system, it is not itself an institution. Instead, it responds to changes in the legal system (i.e., the legalization of gambling). Understanding social institutions can help students grasp:

• The roles different institutions play in maintaining social order
• How they contribute to social stability and continuity
• The ways they can also perpetuate social inequalities

In the scenario, while the legal system (a social institution) enables the legalization of gambling, the coalition forms to challenge this change. This tension illustrates how social institutions can be sites of contestation and change.

social movement

A social movement is a collective endeavor by a large group of people to bring about, resist, or undo a social change. These movements can be broad and encompass diverse groups, often bringing together people who share a common interest in achieving the movement's goals. In the exercise scenario, the coalition that forms to oppose the building of casinos represents a social movement. By rallying against the casinos, the group aims to drive social change. Here are some key characteristics of social movements:

• They are organized and sustained efforts
• They aim to achieve or resist particular social changes
• They often operate outside established institutional pathways

Understanding social movements helps students recognize how collective actions can influence social laws, norms, and perceptions. The coalition's opposition to casino development highlights their united effort to resist changes they believe will negatively affect their communities.