SOCI 212 WEEK 1 Discussion: Defining Social Problems

Introduction to SOCI 212 Week1 Discussion

Welcome to the How-To SOCI 212 Guide SOCI 212 Week 1 Discussion: Defining Social Problems. We will start by carefully reading the assignment instructions. Understand that this is a two-part task on social problems and sociological theories.

First, introduce yourself in 50 words or less by answering the following question: Social problems are a crucial focus for political candidates in election years.  Imagine you are a presidential candidate in the next election. What is the first major social problem you would want to address for the American people, and why does this social problem resonate with you personally or professionally?

Part 1: Personal Introduction as a Presidential Candidate

For Part 1 of SOCI 212 Week 1 Discussion: Defining Social Problems, we have to provide a very brief introduction along with the answer to the scenario given in the instructions of the Week 1 Discussion. The discussion instructions mention “Syllabus and Welcome Message for this course.” If your instructor asks you to read these messages, you should go to your student portal and read the Syllabus and Welcome Message for this course first and then continue with the Week 1 Discussion.

Crafting Your Introduction: Write a brief introduction of yourself in less than 50 words, positioning yourself as a presidential candidate. Keep it concise but impactful.

Identifying a Social Problem: Choose one major social problem you would address as a presidential candidate. Consider current social issues that have a broad impact on society.

Explaining Personal Resonance: Explain why this social problem resonates with you, personally or professionally. Discuss why it’s important and how it aligns with your values or experiences.

Example

As a presidential candidate, my priority is tackling climate change. This crisis impacts us all, threatening our health, economy, and future generations. Personally, witnessing its effects on local communities and understanding its global implications drives my commitment to sustainable solutions and environmental justice for a healthier planet.

Go to the “Humans of New York” website, Instagram page, or Facebook page and browse several narratives of people featured. Explore at least one social problem individuals have discussed as part of their narratives and discuss the following question: Apply at least one of the significant Sociological Theories outlined in this week’s lesson (Structural functionalism, Social Conflict, or Symbolic Interaction) to help understand the social problem discussed in the Humans of New York narrative you chose.

Part 2: Analyzing a Narrative from Humans of New York

Next, we will analyze the narratives we explored on the website provided in the SOCI 212 Week 1 Discussion: Defining Social Problems instructions. I have selected Social Conflict for this discussion post.

Selecting a Narrative: Read several narratives by visiting the Humans of New York website. Choose one that discusses a social problem. Ensure the narrative provides enough depth to analyze.

Applying Social Conflict Theory: Familiarize yourself with Social Conflict Theory. This theory focuses on how societal power structures and inequalities cause social problems. Explain how this theory can be used to understand the social problem discussed in the narrative you selected.

Discussing the Social Problem: Analyze the chosen narrative through the lens of Social Conflict Theory. Discuss how the theory helps explain the causes and impacts of the social problem within the narrative.

Example

Analyzing a narrative from “Humans of New York” through the lens of Social Conflict Theory, one could select a story that delves into a social issue such as racial inequality, economic disparity, or gender discrimination. Social Conflict Theory, which highlights the role of power struggles and inequality in shaping social dynamics, offers a framework to understand the challenges individuals face within these narratives. For instance, a narrative about an immigrant facing employment barriers can illustrate the broader societal issue of systemic inequality. By applying Social Conflict Theory, one can analyze how societal structures and power imbalances contribute to the competitive job market, disadvantaging immigrants and perpetuating economic disparities. This approach sheds light on the individual’s struggle against systemic barriers and connects their experience to broader societal conflicts. Such an analysis reveals the pervasive impact of societal inequalities and underscores the importance of addressing these disparities to foster a more equitable society. This method of examination, grounded in Social Conflict Theory, emphasizes the significance of understanding and addressing the root causes of social problems to achieve societal change.

Closing

This How-To Owlisdom Guide will help students approach the assignment methodically, covering all necessary aspects while providing insightful analysis. SOCI 212 Week 1 Discussion: Defining Social Problems helps us understand the significance of Sociological Theories.