A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What does Giddens' individualisation thesis suggest about traditional social structures?

1. They have become more rigid and influential

2. They have lost their influence

3. They remain the same as in the past

4. They now dictate personal choices strictly

The correct answer is: They have lost their influence

The individualisation thesis proposed by sociologist Anthony Giddens highlights how traditional social structures, such as family, religion, and community, have diminished in their power to impose roles and expectations on individuals. According to Giddens, in contemporary society, individuals have more autonomy and freedom to make choices about their identities and lifestyles, leading to a more individualized existence. The thesis suggests that rather than being bound by the expectations of traditional structures, people now navigate their lives based on personal preferences and experiences. As a result, the significance of these social structures has waned, allowing individuals to craft their own life paths. This shift emphasizes personal agency and reflects broader socio-economic changes, such as globalization and the rise of individualism in modern societies. In contrast, other choices imply that traditional social structures either retain or enhance their control over personal choices, which does not align with Giddens' view that modernity allows for increased individual freedom from these traditional constraints.