Reference no: EM133808131
Assignment: Applying Sociological Perspectives
1) Assess the sociological perspective and its development in studying human behavior;
2) Evaluate major sociological theories by focusing on the main concepts, ideas and critical assessment of each theory from a historical, social and political context.
3) Find, evaluate and cite appropriate academic resources for research in written assignments and oral presentations.
Overview:
You have been introduced to the major theories in the discipline of sociology. These theories include the structural functional, conflict, symbolic interaction, feminist and queer theory. Each theory has a specific premise, set of key terms and theorist associated with the development of the theory. These theories are the foundation for research and writing from a "sociological perspective." The course will continue to apply specific theoretical paradigms to various social issues. This assignment will require you to begin the process of examining a social condition using one of the theories presented in your chapter readings.
Directions:
Select one of the following theories in Sociology: Structural Functionalism, Conflict or Symbolic Interaction, Feminist Theory or Queer Theory and address the following items in a three-page paper.
A. Provide a brief overview of the history of this theory.
B. Select one early theorist associated with this theory and provide a brief biography of this social scientist.
C. What is the underlying premise of the theory? In other words, what is the theory about? How does the theory "attempt to explain" how society is organized and how things work in society?
D. What points do you find most interesting about this theory?
E. Are there any elements of the theory that you find outdated for understanding society and social interaction today?
F. Use this theory to explain a current social condition, problem or event in the news such as the increasing income gap, the Me Too Movement, the economy etc. In essence, how can you relate some of the key concepts and overall position of theory to "frame" a particular social issue?