SOCI-101 Social Issue Assignment

Introduction to SOCI-101 Social Issue Assignment

Welcome to your SOCI-101 Social Issue Assignment, where you will explore and analyze a significant social issue through the lens of sociological theory. This task involves selecting a topic, articulating why it matters, and detailing its societal impacts from both micro and macro perspectives. This assignment is an excellent opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, enhancing your ability to critically evaluate and address social dynamics.

Review the list of Possible Topics for the Social Issue Assignment

Topic Selection and Submission

In this section of the SOCI-101 Social Issue Assignment, we will understand Topic Selection and Submission.

• Begin by reviewing the provided list of potential topics available in the Google Doc linked in your course materials.
• Choose a topic that resonates with your interests or one that you believe has significant societal relevance.

Next, compose a half-page description. Include the following in your description: Tell me which topic you have chosen and why.

Composition of a Brief Rationale

In this section of the SOCI-101 Social Issue Assignment, we will discuss the Composition of a Brief Rationale.

• Clearly articulate your chosen topic and provide a succinct rationale for your choice, focusing on its relevance and importance.
• Discuss what makes this topic particularly compelling for sociological examination.

Example

I have decided to write about “The Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Supply Chain” for my social problem assignment. Because of how much COVID-19 has touched so many facets of society—including the global supply chain—I firmly believe that further research is essential. Looking more closely at this area, we can learn the most about how the epidemic has affected social and economic consequences.

Then begin to develop your topic by responding to the following prompts: Identify which theory you will be applying. Identify at least one micro/macro impact that your topic has on society.  

Development of the Topic

In this section of the SOCI-101 Social Issue Assignment, we will focus on the Development of the Topic.

• Theory Application: Specify which sociological theory you plan to apply to your topic. Choose a theory that aligns well with the dimensions and implications of your chosen social issue.
• Impact Analysis: Identify and describe at least one impact of your topic on society at the micro level (individuals or small groups) and at the macro level (broader societal impacts). Provide a rationale for why these impacts warrant sociological attention and analysis.

Example

I will use functionalism, a sociological theory, to evaluate how COVID-19 will affect the global supply chain. Functionalism emphasises how different social systems are interrelated, dependent on one another, and contribute to social order. Functionalism will help me understand how disruptions in the global supply chain brought on by the epidemic have affected the operation of other social institutions in the context of my social problem project.

A significant social effect of COVID-19 is international trade and business disturbance. This significant disruption brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic is demonstrated by the stringent international regulations that have been put in place. These have resulted in severe travel restrictions and localised lockdowns that have disrupted critical production processes critical to global supply networks. Due to these restrictions, the vital supply of goods like food and medicine becomes critically low, which causes the economic downturn that is required for recovery. Both businesses and individuals who depend on everyday goods from throughout the world are affected.

On a micro level, due to limited product availability, consumers have been forced to reassess their purchasing priorities as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. People are now forced to prioritise necessities before indulgences and to buy more carefully in their community. Numerous firms will be impacted by this shift in customer mindset, both locally and via larger worldwide supply networks.

My research aims to investigate the effects of COVID-19 on the global supply chain from both a local and macro perspective, as well as the social ramifications that follow. This thorough analysis aims to make a substantial contribution to bringing attention to current vulnerabilities and potential resilience in the face of unanticipated events, like these extraordinary times brought on by COVID-19’s impact on our global economic systems..

Closing

In the SOCI-101 Social Issue Assignment, your engagement with sociological theories provides a foundation for deepening your understanding of their application to complex social issues. By carefully selecting your topic, articulating a clear rationale, and analyzing its impacts, you contribute to a broader sociological discourse. This Owlisdom guide is designed to assist you in navigating through the assignment systematically and thoughtfully, ensuring that your analysis is both rigorous and enlightening. Use this opportunity to showcase your analytical skills and your capacity to link theory with real-world issues. In the next module of SOCI-101, we will explore family discussion.