Classical Sociological Theory Essay

Address ONE of the following topics in a well-written, coherent, and logical essay that is about 8 pages in length (12pt font, double-spaced, 1” margins). The page range is a guideline only. I am most interested in the quality of your essay. In writing your essay, you are required to refer only to course material (lecture material,”Classical Sociological Theory” by Calhoun, “Explorations in Sociology” by Allan). All specific references to course material need to be cited in an appropriate manner. You are encouraged to reference outside scholarly sources for extra credit. Should you do so, they must be properly cited. For extra credit, outside material must make a substantial substantive contribution to the content of your essay beyond what is contained in course material (lecture material,”Classical Sociological Theory” by Calhoun, “Explorations in Sociology” by Allan). No credit will be given for material that is not properly cited. See the “Guidelines” at the end of this document for further information on citations. If you have any questions on what is an acceptable source, check with me. Failure to cite properly or citing an inappropriate source will lead to reductions in your grade for the essay.
You must submit an electronic copy through Turnitin on the BB site by the deadline.
Pick Any One of the Following Three Topics:
1. We have discussed Weber’s perspective on power and inequality in society in contrast to that of Marx. Provide a clear summary of Weber’s perspective and point to the important areas which highlight the differences and similarities between his and Marx’s perspectives. Contrast the perspectives of Weber and Marx by analyzing how one of the following current political issues has been framed and debated in the United States: gun control, energy policy, healthcare, LGBT rights
2. Durkheim posited that changes in the division of labor affected the pattern of social relationships that ties individuals to one another and to society. Summarize his perspective on the impact of the division labor. Contrast his view with that of Marx’s understanding of the division of labor and social change.
3. For both Weber and Durkheim the issue of specialization/differentiation, is important for understanding the direction of modernity. Summarize each of their theoretical perspectives. Then point out the similarities and differences between them. What are the implications of their perspectives for understanding key issues that we face today.

Guidelines for Citations
1. Use contextual citations in identifying your sources. Contextual citations are embedded in the text like this (Author’s last name, date, page). Look at the Allan text for an example of contextual citations.
2. I expect you to cite any source of the information that you present. That includes
paraphrasing someone else’s words, as well as direct quotations. The exception is for referring to ideas that are broadly or generally known; i.e. common knowledge. Of course ideas that are your own, or conclusions that you draw from the work of others do not have to be cited (since you are the source of those ideas)
3. You need to provide a list of sources at the end of your essay (a bibliography)
4. Newspapers, popular magazines, encyclopedias, dictionaries, websites tied to commercial websites or college course material are NOT considered scholarly sources. Only articles published in legitimate hardcopy and online scholarly journals, and books published by reputable publishers will be accepted. You can cite a newspaper or magazine article for the purposes of describing a current set of circumstances.
5. Failure to properly cite your sources is plagiarism and will be reported