Question

According to Talcott Parsons, the dichotomies of pattern variables or alternatives an actor can choose in society are: ascription vs _________; affectivity vs _________; and diffuseness vs _________.

• A. achievement, neutrality, specificity
• B. attribution, emotion, distraction
• C. achievement, hatred, specificity
• D. attribution, neutrality, distraction

Hint:

Talcott Parsons’ pattern variables help to explain the choices individuals make based on societal norms and expectations, such as choosing between ascription or achievement.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding Talcott Parsons' pattern variables.
Talcott Parsons identified pattern variables as alternatives that individuals in society can choose between, depending on the context of their actions. These dichotomies help explain the different ways actors behave in society.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Correct, according to Parsons, the alternatives are: ascription vs achievement, affectivity vs neutrality, and diffuseness vs specificity.
- (B) Incorrect, attribution, emotion, and distraction do not represent the pattern variables discussed by Parsons.
- (C) Incorrect, hatred is not one of the choices in Parsons’ theory.
- (D) Incorrect, attribution and distraction are not part of the pattern variables.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answer is (A) achievement, neutrality, specificity.