Sociology Analogy Explained
The question presents an analogy based on sociological concepts, specifically Talcott Parsons' pattern variables, which describe choices or dilemmas faced in social action.
Understanding the Pattern Variables
The analogy relates two pairs of opposing concepts:
- Universalism vs. Particularism: This pair contrasts treating people according to general, impersonal standards (universalism) versus treating them based on personal relationships and circumstances (particularism).
- Diffuseness vs. Specificity: This pair contrasts relationships that are broad, undefined, and encompassing (diffuseness), such as family ties, with relationships that are narrowly defined and limited to a specific function (specificity), like a contractual agreement.
Completing the Analogy
The structure is: Concept A is to its opposite B, as Concept C is to its opposite D.
- Universalism (A) is to Particularism (B)
- Diffuseness (C) is to __________ (D)
In the context of pattern variables, 'diffuseness' represents relationships that are broad and encompassing. The opposite concept, representing relationships that are narrow and functionally specific, is 'specificity'.
Therefore, diffuseness is to specificity.
Conclusion
Completing the sentence: Universalism is to particularism as diffuseness is to specificity.
Important Questions from Sentence Completion
Directions: In a question given below an incomplete sentence that must be filled/completed with one of the sentence /phrases can be fit into the given blanks. Choose the corret option and complete the given sentence.
The focus has been on finishing the syllabus instead of concentration on whether the student _____________________________.
Directions: In a question given below an incomplete sentence that must be filled/completed with one of the sentence /phrases can be fit into the given blanks. Choose the correct option and complete the given sentence.
Due to the rapid mechanisation of low-skill jobs in the construction and retail sectors, employment prospects________________________________.
Directions: Given below is a conversation between two people. Fill in the blank with the appropriate sentence to make it grammatically correct.
Anita: What about our plans for the weekend?
Mehta: Everything set but if Anna comes to know about it, _________
The sentences (given with blanks) are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question, choose the correct alternative and click the button corresponding to it.
See me tomorrow without ___________
The sentences (given with blanks) are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question, choose the correct alternative and click the button corresponding to it.
Radium ___________ rays that blind the eyes.
