Evaluate the impact the Sociological theories, Functionalism, Conflict, and Interactionism has by choosing one of the social institution selected from the list below:
Social Institutions (choose one)
family
health-care
religion
education
mass media
politics
economic
In your paper address the following elements:
How does each theory apply to the selected sociological institution? What are the similarities? What are the differences?
How does each theory affect the views of the individual who is part of the institution?
How does each theory affect the approach to social change within the selected institution?
Within the Sociological institution selected, how does each theory affect the views of society?
Writing the Research Paper
The Research Paper:
Must be eight to ten double-spaced pages in length, (excluding the cover and reference pages) and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
Must include a title page with the following:
Title of paper
Student’s name
Course name and number
Instructor’s name
Date submitted
Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a succinct thesis statement.
Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.
Must use at least five scholarly resources, including a minimum of two from the Ashford Online Library.
Must document all sources in APA style, as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
Must include a separate reference page, formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
How would you like us to help you with this assignment?
To evaluate the impact of sociological theories (Functionalism, Conflict, and Interactionism) on a selected social institution, such as education, you can follow these steps:
1. Understand the sociological theories:
- Functionalism: This theory views society as a system of interrelated parts that work together to maintain social order and stability. It emphasizes the functional roles that different institutions play in society and how they contribute to the overall well-being of the system.
- Conflict theory: This theory emphasizes the role of power and social inequality in society. It views social institutions as sites of conflict and competition for resources, with some groups dominating and exploiting others.
- Interactionism: This theory focuses on the role of individual interactions and meanings in shaping social behavior. It highlights how our interactions with others and the symbols and meanings we attach to situations influence our understanding of society.
2. Choose a social institution:
Select one of the social institutions mentioned above, like education, and analyze it in relation to the three theories.
3. Analyze each theory's application to the selected institution:
- How does functionalism apply to education? Consider how education helps maintain social order, prepares individuals for their roles in society, and contributes to social stability.
- How does conflict theory apply to education? Examine the power dynamics within education, such as inequalities in access, resources, and educational outcomes. Discuss how education can perpetuate or challenge social inequalities.
- How does interactionism apply to education? Explore how individual interactions and meanings shape educational experiences and outcomes. Consider how teacher-student relationships, peer interactions, and cultural influences impact education.
4. Identify similarities and differences:
Compare and contrast how each theory views and explains the selected institution. Look for similarities in terms of recognizing the importance of the institution for society. Also, identify differences in terms of their emphasis on factors such as power, inequality, or individual agency.
5. Discuss the impact of each theory on individuals within the institution:
Examine how each theory affects the perspectives and experiences of individuals who are part of the institution. Consider how functionalism may promote a sense of purpose and role for individuals, how conflict theory can lead to an awareness of power dynamics and inequalities, and how interactionism emphasizes the role of social interactions and individual agency in education.
6. Evaluate the approach to social change within the institution:
Analyze how each theory provides insight into the potential for social change within the selected institution. Consider how functionalism may focus on maintaining the status quo, how conflict theory can inspire efforts to challenge and transform educational systems, and how interactionism underscores the role of individual actions in advocating for change.
7. Explain the impact of each theory on society's views:
Discuss how each theory's perspective on the selected institution affects society's overall perception. Consider how functionalism may contribute to a positive view of education as a necessary institution, how conflict theory may foster skepticism and criticism of educational inequalities, and how interactionism may highlight the importance of individual experiences and diversity within education.
8. Write your research paper:
Follow the given guidelines for formatting and structure, including the title page, introductory paragraph with a clear thesis statement, critical analysis of the topic, and a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis. Use a minimum of five scholarly resources, including at least two from the Ashford Online Library, and cite them in APA style. Include a separate reference page formatted according to APA style guidelines.
By following these steps, you will be able to effectively evaluate the impact of sociological theories on a selected social institution and write a comprehensive research paper.