Reference no: EM133478452

Homework: The Problem of Evil Paper

We learned how definitions of marriage and family have changed over time and explored gender inequality within these institutions. For this homework, we will apply what we've learned to analyze how ideals of modern marriage and the nuclear family compare to our own experiences of marriage and family and/or how popular culture represents families in our society. In your paper, you should do the following:

A. First, introduce the topic by discussing what you've learned on ideals of modern marriage and the nuclear family in our society. Clearly define each of these ideals and explain their impact on gender inequality.

B. Next, reflect on how these ideals compare to your own experiences with marriage and family. Be sure to fully explain each comparison and give specific examples as needed. Here are some questions that you may want to consider as you write your paper:

a. Describe what the division of household labor was like in your own house growing up. Who did what, and how did everyone seem to feel about it? Were there tensions over who did what tasks?

b. What would your own ideal division of household labor be, now or in your future household?

c. How does your own family and/or the families in your social circle compare to the nuclear family?

d. How does popular culture represent marriage and families in our society?

C. Apply some of the sociological concepts we learned this week as you reflect on how your family compares to the ideals of modern marriage and the nuclear family. Examples of concepts you could incorporate include: the marriage gradient, the sexual division of labor, the doctrine of separate spheres, or the second shift. When discussing a concept, be sure to clearly define the term and explain how it applies to your example!