CAIE
Sociology
(9699)
2023
May/June Paper 42
Questions & Answers
Q1.
Essay
35 marks
'Capitalism is the main reason for the growth in global crime.' Evaluate this view.
Model Answer:
A strong answer would assess the view that capitalism is the main reason for the growth in global crime, using relevant sociological theories and evidence. It should consider how capitalism may encourage global crime through inequality, exploitation, consumerism, deregulation, and the expansion of transnational markets, but also evaluate alternative explanations such as state crime, political instability, weak regulation, globalisation, and cultural factors. A balanced conclusion is needed.
Explanation: This is an evaluative essay question; the model answer outlines the key arguments expected.
Q2.
Essay
35 marks
'Modernisation theory provides the best explanation of why some countries remain poor.' Evaluate this view.
Model Answer:
A strong answer would evaluate modernisation theory as an explanation for persistent poverty, including its claims about traditional values, lack of investment, and stages of development. It should also assess criticisms and alternatives such as dependency theory, world-systems theory, neo-colonialism, debt, unequal trade, and the role of global institutions. A reasoned judgement is required.
Explanation: This is an evaluative essay question; the model answer outlines the key arguments expected.
Q3.
Essay
35 marks
'Media content is shaped by the interests of the ruling class.' Evaluate this view.
Model Answer:
A strong answer would examine Marxist arguments that media content reflects ruling-class interests through ownership, advertising, ideology, and agenda-setting. It should also evaluate alternative perspectives such as pluralism, postmodernism, and the role of professional norms, audience choice, and media fragmentation. A balanced conclusion is needed.
Explanation: This is an evaluative essay question; the model answer outlines the key arguments expected.
Q4.
Essay
35 marks
'The two-step flow model provides the best explanation of media influence.' Evaluate this view.
Model Answer:
A strong answer would assess the two-step flow model, including the role of opinion leaders and interpersonal communication in shaping media influence. It should compare this with other explanations such as hypodermic syringe theory, uses and gratifications, cultural effects, and the impact of digital media and algorithms. A justified conclusion is required.
Explanation: This is an evaluative essay question; the model answer outlines the key arguments expected.
Q5.
Essay
35 marks
'Religion is a source of conflict in society.' Evaluate this view.
Model Answer:
A strong answer would evaluate the view that religion causes conflict, drawing on examples such as sectarian conflict, religious fundamentalism, and clashes between religious groups or between religion and secular authority. It should also consider arguments that religion can promote social cohesion, peace, and moral consensus, and may be a response to wider social, political, or economic causes of conflict. A balanced conclusion is needed.
Explanation: This is an evaluative essay question; the model answer outlines the key arguments expected.
Q6.
Essay
35 marks
'Resacrilisation is occurring in many societies.' Evaluate this view.
Model Answer:
A strong answer would assess the claim that resacrilisation is occurring, including evidence of renewed religious belief, fundamentalism, spirituality, and the public role of religion in some societies. It should also evaluate secularisation theory, religious decline, privatisation of belief, and the uneven nature of religious change across different societies. A reasoned conclusion is required.
Explanation: This is an evaluative essay question; the model answer outlines the key arguments expected.