Smart (2007) argues that the individualisation thesis does what?

Smart (2007) argues that the individualisation thesis does what?

• A. Individualisation exaggerates the decline of the family and there are no longer strong bonds
• B. Individualisation does not erase social rules and family ties remain strong
• C. The theory predicts a complete collapse of kin networks
• D. It leads to universal dismantling of norms

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how Smart critiques the notion that individualisation dissolves family life. Smart argues that while people may seek more personal freedom and diverse life choices, this does not wipe out social rules or erase family ties. Norms around care, support, and kinship obligations still operate, and families continue to play a central role even as they transform. In other words, individualisation changes how families look and function, but it does not lead to their collapse. So the best answer is that individualisation does not erase social rules and family ties remain strong. The other options push toward a total breakdown of kin networks or universal dismantling of norms, which overstate what Smart argues.

The idea being tested is how Smart critiques the notion that individualisation dissolves family life. Smart argues that while people may seek more personal freedom and diverse life choices, this does not wipe out social rules or erase family ties. Norms around care, support, and kinship obligations still operate, and families continue to play a central role even as they transform. In other words, individualisation changes how families look and function, but it does not lead to their collapse. So the best answer is that individualisation does not erase social rules and family ties remain strong.

The other options push toward a total breakdown of kin networks or universal dismantling of norms, which overstate what Smart argues.