What term describes membership defined by birth such as gender, ethnicity, or nation?

• A. Masculinity
• B. Hierarchy of Needs
• C. Ascribed Group Membership
• D. Autocracy

Answer: (C)

Membership defined by birth such as gender, ethnicity, or nation is described as ascribed group membership. In sociology, ascribed status is something a person is born into or assigned, not earned or chosen. These birth-defined categories shape how others perceive us and often come with different social expectations and opportunities. This contrasts with achieved group membership, which arises from personal actions or choices, like earning a degree or joining a club. The other terms point to different ideas: masculinity relates to gender identity or expression, the Hierarchy of Needs is a motivational theory, and autocracy is a form of government. So, ascribed group membership best fits the description.