The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate what you have learned throughout the semester by critically analyzing, comparing, applying and integrating social theory into the analysis of a social problem. In comparing two theoretical explanations of a problem, you will demonstrate which theory better explains the problem while using scholarly evidence to support your claims.
Choose a social problem then apply and analyze two social theories to evaluate their relative merits in explaining the problem as well as possible solutions. Identify and summarize the major central assumptions, principles, and ideas in the theories that you have chosen as they apply to your chosen social problem. Using scholarly sources to explain both your social problem as well as the application of theories to them, you will demonstrate your ability to analyze and critique the theoretical approaches as they explain contemporary issues from a sociological perspective.
Your paper should focus on well-selected aspects of your chosen theory and clearly examine the links between theoretical concepts and real world applications and topics. It should be carefully proofread and edited, conform to the applicable guidelines of APA or ASA format, and include all citations and references. Each point should be carefully explained with sociological concepts, explicitly justified with reason and empirical scientific evidence, and illustrated through specific real-world examples.
Your paper should include the following components:
A clear, focused thesis statement that demonstrates the scope of the paper and the claim you are making.
Clear sociological understanding of the social problem.
A demonstrated comprehensive understanding of each theoretical approach as applied to the social problem
A detailed comparative analysis of limitations and benefits of each theory as it applies to the real world.
Strong integration of scholarly and reputable sources that support claims and are well contextualized.
Requirements:
8-10 pages double spaced pages, not including references
4 scholarly sources, cited via ASA or APA both in the text and reference page
You will submit an outline of the paper in Unit 6 (50 points), a complete draft of the paper in Unit 7 (100 points), and the completed paper in Unit 8 (150 points).
Directions
For the outline, you will submit a one page detailed outline to serve as the guide for your paper. It must include the following components, written in bullet points or short phrases:
Thesis Statement
Explanation of the Social Problem
First Theory: Explanation and major points
Second Theory: Explanation and major points
Comparison of Theories as applied to Social Problem: major points to be addressed
List of Scholarly Sources
Appelrouth and Edles, Chapter 9, p 345-374, 377-387
Appelrouth and Edles, Chapter 10, p 396-416, 423-435, 469-481
Appelrouth and Edles, Chapter 5, p 201-237
Appelrouth and Edles, Chapter 6, p 239-253, 266-276
Appelrouth and Edles, Chapter 3, p83-110
Appelrouth and Edles, Chapter 4, p139-165, 175-191
