Question

Who coined the term ’Status Symbol’?

• A. Karl Marx
• B. Anne Hardgrove
• C. Marcel Mauss
• D. Max Weber

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In the study of sociology, the term 'Status Symbol' is attributed to Marcel Mauss. Mauss was an influential sociologist and anthropologist known for his work on gift exchanges and social structures. The concept of a status symbol refers to objects, behaviors, or qualities that indicate social status or position within a society. These symbols often reflect wealth, power, or prestige and are a subject of analysis in understanding social hierarchies and cultural values.

Answer 2

The term "status symbol" was coined by Marcel Mauss, a French sociologist and anthropologist, in his work on social exchange and the way societies use material possessions to signify social status. Mauss explored how individuals use symbolic objects to convey their place in society, emphasizing the role of gifts, possessions, and other material culture in social relationships.

• Karl Marx (Option 1) is known for his theories on class struggle and the relationship between economic systems and society, but he did not coin the term "status symbol."
• Anne Hardgrove (Option 2) is not known for coining the term "status symbol."
• Max Weber (Option 4) was a sociologist who studied social stratification, but he is not credited with coining the term "status symbol."

Thus, Marcel Mauss is the correct answer.