Question

Please type and no plagiarism more than a page

Assignment 3, Politics and Economy  

1. Identify and describe the three types of authority. Include in your answer how they are similar as well as different and provide an example of each.

2. What are the essential features of capitalism and socialism? Why is each ideology so opposed to the other? How are they becoming similar?

3. Discuss the sociological significance of global capitalism.

Answer 1

1. Identify and describe the three types of authority. Include in your answer how they are similar as well as different and provide an example of each.

            There are 3 types of authority. The textbook defines them as traditional authority, rational-legal authority, and charismatic authority. Traditional authority is based on customs within the society. In America, the president would be an example of traditional authority. Rational-legal authority is based on written laws or rules. Our constitution is an example of rational-legal authority. Charismatic authority comes from an individual’s charisma and their ability to attract followers. Barack Obama is not only traditionally authoritative, but also charismatically authoritative because of his accomplishments and likability and ability to attract followers.

2. What are the essential features of capitalism and socialism? Why is each ideology so opposed to the other? How are they becoming similar?

            The essential features of capitalism are private ownership of the means of production, market competition and the pursuit of profit. Socialism on the other hand has different essential features. They are almost exact opposites. They are as follows: public ownership of the means of production, central planning, and the distribution of goods without profit being the motive. They are becoming more similar because major socialistic nations are adopting more of the United States’ policies and capitalist ideology.

3. Discuss the sociological significance of global capitalism.

            Global capitalism has the potential to change everyone’s lives in terms of how they live and work. Everyone’s lives and jobs are dependent upon each other. Because of global capitalism the world’s nations are divided into 3 trading blocks. North and South America are dominated by the US, Europe dominated by Germany, and Asia dominated by Japan.