Application Paper Due Wednesday, September 14, 2016

The Application Paper by Wednesday, September 14, 2016, using the textbook and Argosy Online Library references that you may select, write a paper (minimum 750 words) using APA standards, that answers the questions below.

First, from the Argosy University online library, select one of the following articles to read: Fantasia, Rick. (1995). From class consciousness to culture, action, and social organization . Annual Review of Sociology , 21, p. . Martin, Karin A. (1998). Becoming a gendered body . American Sociological Review, 63 (4), p. . McKinlay, John B., Lin, Ting, Freund, Karen, & Moskowitz, Mark. (2002). The Unexpected influence of physician attributes on clinical decisions: Results of an experiment . Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 43 (1), p. 92-106. Second, answer the following questions in an organized essay: What is the social problem the researchers are investigating? What is the research method (i.e.: survey, participant observation, experiment, secondary sources) used by the researchers? What were the results or findings of the research? What do you think would be a good solution to the social problem?

Please post your completed paper in the M1: Assignment 3 Dropbox.

Paper For Above instruction

The social dimensions of health care, identity, and social organization are central themes in sociological research. This paper explores these themes through the lens of an article selected from the Argosy University online library, focusing specifically on the social problem investigated, the research methodology employed, the main findings, and proposed solutions to the social issues addressed.

Introduction

The sociological investigation chosen for this analysis is Rick Fantasia's 1995 article, "From class consciousness to culture, action, and social organization." This work explores how class consciousness manifests and transforms within modern social structures, raising critical concerns about social inequality, cultural identity, and collective action. The overarching social problem addressed is the persistence and transformation of class-based social stratification, which continues to influence individuals' opportunities and social mobility. Understanding the social organization of class and culture is imperative for developing effective interventions and policies aimed at reducing social inequality.

The Social Problem Investigated

Fantasia's article investigates the social problem of class consciousness and its evolution in contemporary society. The research underscores how traditional class consciousness, rooted in economic disparities and shared labor experiences, has shifted towards more nuanced cultural and identity-based forms of social organization. This transition complicates efforts to address class-based inequalities, as cultural identity often intersects with issues of race, gender, and ethnicity, making social cohesion and collective action more challenging. The persistent inequalities in socioeconomic status, despite social movements and policy reforms, reveal the complex nature of social stratification, necessitating deeper sociological insights into the transformation of class and culture.

Research Methods Used

Fantasia employs qualitative research methods, particularly participant observation and ethnographic analysis, to investigate how cultural and social practices influence class consciousness. These methods enable a detailed understanding of the lived experiences of individuals within various social settings, capturing the nuanced ways in which cultural identities are constructed and maintained. Through ethnographic engagement, Fantasia observes social interactions, cultural expressions, and organizational structures that shape individual perceptions of social class and collective identity. This methodological approach allows for a rich, context-dependent analysis crucial for understanding complex social phenomena like class transformation.

Findings and Results

The findings reveal that class consciousness has become less about economic circumstances and more about cultural affiliations and social practices. Fantasia identifies that individuals and groups construct a sense of identity rooted in cultural expressions, symbols, and organizational affiliations, which influence their social actions and perceptions. The research demonstrates that cultural capital and identity markers increasingly determine social mobility and social integration. Additionally, the study shows that social organizations, such as labor unions or community groups, shift their focus from economic issues to cultural and identity concerns, influencing the trajectory of social movements. This transformation poses challenges for traditional collective action aimed solely at economic redistribution, as cultural issues often evoke different types of resistance and solidarity.

Personal and Societal Solutions

Addressing the social problem of evolving class consciousness requires multifaceted solutions. From a societal perspective, policies should aim to bridge cultural divides and promote inclusive social participation. Education systems can be reformed to foster cultural literacy, emphasizing understanding across different social and cultural groups. Social programs should prioritize creating equitable opportunities that recognize diverse cultural identities while promoting economic mobility. Personal solutions involve individuals becoming more aware of the ways cultural identities influence their perceptions and interactions, encouraging empathy and solidarity across social boundaries. Community-based initiatives that celebrate diversity and foster dialogue can dismantle barriers to collective action, facilitating a more cohesive social transformation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Fantasia's exploration of class consciousness and cultural transformation provides vital insights into the persistent social problem of inequality. The qualitative research methods employed reveal the profound impact of cultural identities on social organization and collective action. Addressing these issues requires combined efforts in policy reform, community engagement, and individual education. Bridging the gap between economic and cultural understandings may pave the way for more effective strategies to foster social cohesion and reduce disparities. As society continues to evolve, understanding the complex relationship between class, culture, and social organization remains essential for fostering equitable social environments.

References

• Fantasia, R. (1995). From class consciousness to culture, action, and social organization. Annual Review of Sociology, 21, 13-31.
• Martin, K. A. (1998). Becoming a gendered body. American Sociological Review, 63(4), 481-495.
• McKinlay, J. B., Lin, T., Freund, K., & Moskowitz, M. (2002). The unexpected influence of physician attributes on clinical decisions: Results of an experiment. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 43(1), 92-106.
• Bourdieu, P. (1986). The forms of capital. In J. Richardson (Ed.), The Handbook of Theory and Research for the Sociology of Education (pp. 241-258). Greenwood.
• Gusfield, J. R. (1984). The Culture of Public Problems: Drinking-Driving and the Symbolic Order. UCP.
• Link, B. G., & Phelan, J. C. (1995). Social conditions as fundamental causes of disease. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 35(3), 80-94.
• Roller, M. R., & Lavrakas, P. J. (2015). Technical Decisions for Social Research. Taylor & Francis.
• Smith, D. E. (1990). The Conceptual Practices of Power: A Feminist Sociology of Knowledge. Northeastern University Press.
• Wacquant, L. (2004). Body & soul: Notebooks of an apprentice boxer. Oxford University Press.
• Wilson, W. J. (2012). The Truly Disadvantaged: The Inner City, the Underclass, and Public Policy. University of Chicago Press.