Sociology 410 - Spring 2003
"Classical Texts, Contemporary Applications"
Final Paper
Select a contemporary social issue or problem: either one you examined earlier in the semester, or a new one. Compare and contrast the usefulness of the work of all three theorists studied this semester – Marx, Weber, and Durkheim – in diagnosing underlying social dynamics involved in this issue or problem and prescribing what might be done to address it. Draw closely from relevant original texts of all three theorists. Illustrate your discussion of the contemporary social issue or problem with secondary sources, as useful. Conclude with a discussion of either (a) which theorist's work best lends itself to addressing that social issue or problem, and why; (b) why an integrated perspective drawing from more than one of the theorists offers the most powerful approach to understanding that issue or problem; or (c) why none of the theorists' perspectives is useful in addressing that issue or problem. In the latter case, explain what about the issue or problem you selected does not lend itself to examination using the work of the classical theorists, and suggest alternate analytical approaches.
Your paper should be 5-8 pp. in length, typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. type, 1" margins, plus a coversheet (indicating your campus as well as other relevant information) and references. All sources should be properly cited and referenced; direct quotes and close paraphrasing should be so noted. Pages should be numbered & the document spell-checked. References do not need to be on a separate page.
If you wish your graded paper to be mailed to you at an off-campus location, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Oral Presentation (Optional)
A limited number of students will have the opportunity to present insights and arguments from their final papers to the entire class. The final two class sessions have been reserved for this purpose. Each presentation will be approximately 10 minutes in length, including questions and discussion. Thus, we will have time for approximately seven students per class. Undergraduates making final presentations will receive extra credit. Sign-ups will be on a first-come basis. An "alternate" list will be maintained, also on a first-come basis, in case of cancellations.
last updated April 15, 2003