Question

A symbol is
a.
the unintended and unrecognized consequence of an element of society.
b.
anything that represents something else.
c.
a description comprised of the essential characteristics of a feature of society.
d.
the consequence that an element of society produces for the maintenance of its social system.

Answer 1

b. anything that represents something else.

Explanation: In sociology and semiotics, a symbol is any object, word, gesture, or image that stands for or represents something beyond itself. (The other options describe latent functions (a), an ideal type/definition (c), and a function/functional consequence (d).)