Reference no: EM132644354

Question 1: Describe the reasoning of the "sociological imagination," sociology, manifest functions, latent functions, social structure, functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interaction, social forces, class struggle, capitalism, social order, social change, capitalist class, working class, division of labor, bureaucracy, social integration, feminist theory, anomie, communism, alienation, and "disenchantment with the world" or extreme rationality.

Question 2: Show how the pioneering work of Emile Durkheim on suicide helps to reveal the influence of social patterns in the actions of individuals. Now, write an account of the reasons you have for taking this class. Consider, then, the possible "deeper" social reasons underlying this decision (use your sociological imagination).

Question 3: Which theory has been influenced by the views of Comte, Spencer, Durkheim, and Merton? Make sure to refer in your account to the notions of social order, social solidarity, social structure, anomie, division of labor, and functional interdependence.

Question 4: Write an essay on the major points of Marx's conflict view of society. In your essay, focus on the nature of capitalism, the causes of worker alienation, and the social forces that in Marx's view, lead to the development of a communist society. What components in Marx's analysis seem to be correct and which seem to be wrong?

Question 5: Describe the three major sociological paradigms in terms of their assumptions, main arguments, research questions, strengths and weaknesses.

Question 6: Who are the main thinkers identified with each major paradigm? What were their contributions to their respective theory?

Question 7: Explain the statement: "all Marxist theory is conflict theory but not all conflict theory is Marxist."

Question 8: Compare and contrast the three main sociological paradigms in terms of their assumptions, main arguments, research questions, strengths and weaknesses.

Question 9: In what ways are structural functionalism and conflict paradigms different? In what ways are they similar? Are conflict and consensus in society mutually exclusive as the theories suggest? Is there a best theory? Explain the reasons for our answer

Question 10: How would each paradigm explain sports in the United States? Use your sociological imagination to explain the arts.