What is defined as a system of ideas and ideals that form the basis of theories and policies?

The term that is defined as a system of ideas and ideals that form the basis of theories and policies is ideology. Ideology encompasses the beliefs, values, and principles that shape the way individuals or groups understand the world and approach various societal issues. It serves as a framework for understanding social phenomena and guides political and social action.

In the context of sociology, ideology plays a crucial role in influencing policy decisions and social theories, as it provides a lens through which people interpret information and make sense of their experiences and societal structures. This concept is essential for comprehending how different societal groups might prioritize certain values or advocate for specific policies based on their underlying beliefs.

The other options do not encapsulate this definition effectively. Cultural lag refers to the period of time it takes for society to adjust to new technological or social changes, material culture involves the physical objects and artifacts of a society, and cultural scripts are the guidelines or expectations for behavior within a specific context. While all these concepts are relevant to sociology, they do not directly represent a system of ideas and ideals like ideology does.