Exam 13: Technology, the Environment, and Social Movements

The social conditions of strike frequency provide evidence of which aspect of solidarity theory?

Briefly outline Tilly's breakdown theory as a functionalist explanation of the roots of social movements. Identify the flaws in the explanation.

Even though there are lax environmental controls in developing countries, explain why the developed world is responsible for most of the pollution affecting the entire globe.

Strike frequency is a good example of the effects of resource mobilization. Strike frequency is high when unemployment is high, when union membership is declining, and when social welfare benefits are inadequate.

Explain why current social movements press for changes to international laws and agreements.

What is the term used for the belief that technology is the major force shaping human society and history?

According to breakdown theory, relative deprivation creates strain; the strain prompts collective action to resolve the gap between expected and received social rewards.

Define sociologist Charles Perrow's term normal accident. Give some examples to support your answer.

The explosion of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima, Japan, essentially ended World War II and divided the twentieth century into two distinct periods. Contrast the two periods with respect to an evaluation of technology.

Which theory assumes that collective action results from the disruption or breakdown of traditional norms, expectations, and patterns of behaviour?

According to the text, which of the following most significantly shapes the direction and priorities of research in universities?

Charles Perrow identified such occurrences as the Union Carbide pesticide leak from its plant in Bhopal India, the nuclear reactor explosion in Chernobyl, and the Exxon Valdez's oil spill as which of the following?

Define global warming by briefly describing the relationship of fossil fuel use and atmospheric changes.

Strategies that invest heavily in energy-saving technologies, environmental cleanup, and subsidizing environmentally friendly industrialization are grouped under which of the following categories?

David is excited because he has suddenly realized the potential of science to create a better life for people all over the world. What is David excited about?