Description
In sociology, it is important to understand how to analyze a social problem using the micro and macro analytic perspectives. This assignment will help you learn this skill. In an essay (1,500-2,000 words) you will analyze the problem of urbanization.
Use the following analytic framework to construct your essay. Required: a minimum of three scholarly sources to support the analysis (your text can be one source). Be sure this is an integrated, fully developed essay (e.g., do not simply provide a response in each category of the analytic framework below). As with all analytic essays, you should have a well-formulated introduction and conclusion.
1. Problem Statement about Urbanization
What is the social problem?
In this section of the essay, encapsulate the essence of a social problem associated with urbanization (e.g. urban renewal and “top down” city planning, air & water quality, housing)
Clearly describe a specific problem associated with urbanization. What is the extent, scope and severity of this problem? (Use your text or other scholarly sources to support your description of the problem.) Briefly summarize the negative consequences of this problem to society as a whole and/or to specific groups of people. Why is it important to understand and address this social problem? Why changes the status quo?
2. Vision of Change and Goal Clarification
What is the envisioned change as it relates to the social problem of Urbanization?
In this section of the essay, briefly describe what things would “look like” if the Urbanization were effectively addressed, minimized, eliminated, or if prevention steps were taken to alleviate undesirable consequences of the problem. What are specific goals to achieve the desired change (e.g., test and implement local programs to address and reduce the problem). Who stands to gain or lose if the envisioned change is realized?
3. Historical Background and Current Conditions
What contextual factors influence this social problem?
In this section of the essay, briefly describe two contextual factors that have influenced this social problem (e.g., historical, economic, cultural, structural, or technological factors). (Use the text or other scholarly sources to support your discussion of contextual factors influencing the problem).
Select TWO of the sociological theories (functionalist theory, conflict theory, symbolic interactionist theory) to briefly explain this social problem, given the contextual conditions you have identified. Use one theory associated with MACRO analysis, and one theory associated with MICRO analysis to explain the problem.
4. Possible Directions to Achieve Desired Change
What is needed to achieve the vision of change and address the identified social problem?
In this section of the essay, briefly summarize and provide a rationale for adopting one possible approach to achieve the desired change. Approaches to consider using to address this problem include prevention, intervention, social reform, and reconstruction. (Refer to Chapter 1 Section 1.4 Future Prospects: Solving Social Problems in Introduction to Social Problems).
How might stakeholders (those who might support or oppose the desired social change) be considered in planning an approach to social change?
5. Future Prospects: Suggested Strategies to Alleviate the Problem
Finally, in this section of the essay, propose two to three practical steps or strategies to move forward with the selected approach to change. Make sure your suggestions are aligned with the approach you proposed above (e.g. prevention, intervention) What are the strengths/limitations of your proposed strategies?
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the GCU Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
