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What does the connectedness thesis proposed by Smart emphasize?

  1. Isolation in decision-making

  2. The role of social networks in choices

  3. Complete freedom from social influence

  4. Individualism as the basis of family structure

The correct answer is: The role of social networks in choices

The connectedness thesis proposed by Smart emphasizes the significant role that social networks play in individuals' decision-making processes. This thesis suggests that people's choices and identities are shaped by their interactions and relationships with others, rather than occurring in isolation. By focusing on the interconnectedness of individuals, the thesis highlights how family, friends, and broader social ties influence personal decisions, perspectives, and behaviors. It challenges the notion of absolute individualism, reinforcing that social contexts and relationships are crucial in shaping how people navigate their lives, especially regarding family structures and personal choices. This aligns with sociological perspectives that recognize the importance of social context in understanding individual behavior, contrasting with ideas that suggest individuals operate independently of their social environments.