A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What has contributed to the distrust of social institutions in postmodern society?

1. Increased reliance on religious doctrines

2. Enhancement of community bonds

3. Failure of science to solve societal problems

4. Proliferation of social rituals

The correct answer is: Failure of science to solve societal problems

In postmodern society, one significant factor contributing to the distrust of social institutions is the perceived failure of science to effectively resolve societal issues. This skepticism stems from the complex nature of modern problems, where scientific advancements and rational approaches may not provide straightforward solutions. For instance, issues like climate change, social inequality, and public health crises illustrate how scientific solutions can sometimes fall short of addressing underlying social dynamics or can lead to unintended consequences. As a result, many individuals start to question the authority and reliability of scientific institutions. This distrust is amplified by the proliferation of alternative information sources, including social media, leading to confusion and multiple narratives about which institutions can be trusted. In this context, the failure of science to live up to its promise as a reliable problem-solver fosters a broader skepticism towards all established institutions, contributing to a general sense of disillusionment in postmodern society. The other options do not capture the essence of this disillusionment in the same manner. Increased reliance on religious doctrines and enhancement of community bonds typically reflect a search for stability rather than distrust. The proliferation of social rituals may indicate the continuation of certain traditions but doesn't inherently relate to the distrust of social institutions in the same way that the failures of science do.