SOC 510 Global Social Problems And Sociological Theory ✓ Solved

SOC 510 Global Social Problems And Sociological Theory Worksheet

Describe the chosen global social problem (50-75 words): The chosen global social problem is discrimination based on gender, race, access to technology, ethnicity, and age. Discrimination is an act of deliberately making a distinction, often based on group, category, or class, which individuals are believed to belong to. People are often discriminated against due to age, race, criminal record, caste, family status, disability, height, gender identity, and technological access.

Explanation of sociological theory (dependency theory, Marx's conflict theory, modernization theory), and how that theory would explain the global social problem (words): Conflict theory emphasizes power differentials and class conflict. Karl Marx's conflict theory suggests that society's structure connects to major classes defined by property ownership. The struggle between classes leads to societal change, with ownership of production machinery (bourgeoisie), land (landowners), and labor (proletariat). These class distinctions contribute to societal discrimination based on resources, manifesting in gender, race, ethnicity, age, and access to technology inequalities. Marginalized groups, such as women, minorities, or lower social classes, face discrimination due to unequal resource distribution and social power imbalances (Lahey & Oxley, 2018). For example, in technology access, lower classes lack resources; women and minorities face discrimination in employment and education, reinforcing inequality.

Three nations where this social problem exists: Discrimination exists in the USA, South Korea, and France.

How does the problem contribute to inequality in the USA? The most prevalent forms of discrimination in the U.S. include ethnicity, gender, age, and technological access, rooted in historical patterns of exploitation and segregation. Legacies of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and systemic racial inequalities contribute to disparities in wages, employment, healthcare, and education (Oliver, 2008). Limited funding for anti-discrimination agencies hampers efforts to address inequality. Marginalized communities face barriers to accessing healthcare and technology, influenced by systemic inequality and initial design biases in technology development. Age discrimination limits opportunities for older workers. Other inequalities include child poverty, homelessness among Black populations, gender pay gaps, racial disparities in education, health insurance, and incarceration rates (Stanford Center on Poverty and Inequality, n.d.).

How does the problem contribute to inequality in South Korea? Discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, age, and access to technology significantly impacts social inequalities. For instance, studies show that approximately 80% of women experience discrimination at work, in education, and at home (Kim et al., 2012). Ethnic and racial discrimination persists, with minorities facing barriers in employment and social participation, which exacerbates inequality (United Nations, n.d.). Gender-biased technology access is evident, with men more likely to pursue technical careers, leading to resource disparities. Discrimination results in psychological harm, such as depression, and limits social mobility for victims.

How does the problem contribute to inequality in France? Although income inequality and poverty have declined, racial and ethnic disparities persist. France's policy of not collecting racial or ethnic data since 1978 has hindered targeted efforts to address minority-specific issues (Frickey et al., 2005). Minorities, such as Roma populations, face significant barriers to political participation, education, and employment. Young French men and those of African descent are less likely to find jobs despite similar qualifications, perpetuating economic disparities. The invisibility of minorities due to data policies hampers effective intervention, leading to ongoing social inequalities.

Identify and discuss any current global strategies being implemented that attempt to address the social problem and analyze their effectiveness. One approach is evidence-based strategies focusing on social interventions. These strategies involve research identifying causes of discrimination through peer-reviewed studies, leading to targeted solutions (Hutchison, 2010). Evidence-based practices can address underlying social determinants by providing reliable, proven measures to combat discrimination and inequality. For example, programs that enhance diversity in technology design can reduce initial biases. Such strategies aim to prevent discrimination by informing policy and practice with empirical data, though their effectiveness depends on sustained implementation and cultural change. International organizations and governments continue to adopt these strategies to promote social justice and reduce inequality (An evidence-based strategy for problem-solving, n.d.).

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Discrimination as a Global Social Problem: A Sociological Perspective

Introduction

Discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, age, and access to technology remains a pervasive global social problem. These forms of discrimination contribute significantly to societal inequalities, perpetuating cycles of poverty, marginalization, and social exclusion. Understanding the roots and mechanisms of discrimination through sociological theories provides insight into the systemic nature of these issues and informs strategies aimed at promoting equity. This paper explores how conflict theory, specifically Marx’s conflict theory, explains discrimination and resource disparities, examining its manifestations in the United States, South Korea, and France. It further evaluates current global strategies aimed at mitigating discrimination and enhancing social justice.

Theoretical Framework: Conflict Theory and Discrimination

Conflict theory posits that society is characterized by ongoing struggles between groups vying for resources and power (Marx, 1867). Karl Marx’s conflict theory emphasizes that societal structures are inherently unequal, largely due to the ownership of resources—production means, land, and capital—by a dominant class (Lahey & Oxley, 2018). These class distinctions foster systemic discrimination as marginalized groups lack access to resources that confer social power. For example, economic disparities foster gender discrimination, racial inequality, and unequal access to technology. Marginalized groups, such as women and minorities, often face barriers in employment, education, and healthcare, which are rooted in structural inequalities reinforced by those with economic and social privilege.

Discrimination in the United States

In the United States, historical legacies of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism have established persistent inequalities (Oliver, 2008). African Americans, Hispanic populations, and other minorities face disparities in income, healthcare, and education, reinforced by limited access to high-paying jobs and social services. The digital divide has further exacerbated these inequalities, with marginalized communities less likely to own technological devices or have reliable internet access, thus limiting their economic and educational opportunities (Stanford Center on Poverty and Inequality, n.d.). Age discrimination also affects individuals over 50, hindering employment prospects. Despite anti-discrimination laws, enforcement remains inconsistent, and societal biases persist, perpetuating inequality.

Discrimination in South Korea

South Korea exhibits significant social stratification based on gender, ethnicity, and age. Women experience discrimination in employment, often limited to lower-paying or less-prominent roles (Kim et al., 2012). Ethnic minorities and foreigners face barriers in social participation and employment opportunities, with many experiencing social exclusion. Discriminatory attitudes are reinforced by societal norms and cultural biases, which limit access to resources like education and technological careers for women and minorities. The prevalence of gender-biased access to technology and career opportunities perpetuates socioeconomic disparities, affecting individuals’ mental health and social mobility.

Discrimination in France

France’s policy of not collecting ethnic or racial data has made it difficult to quantify and directly address racial disparities (Frickey et al., 2005). Nonetheless, minorities such as the Roma community and individuals of African descent face widespread discrimination in employment, housing, and political participation. Studies reveal that populations of African origin are less likely to secure employment with comparable qualifications (Racism and discrimination in France, 2019). The invisibility of minorities due to data restrictions hampers policymaking and resource allocation, sustaining social inequalities and marginalization.

Global Strategies to Combat Discrimination

Current global efforts include evidence-based strategies, which leverage research to design effective interventions. These strategies involve collecting data, analyzing social determinants, and implementing targeted programs to reduce discrimination (Hutchison, 2010). For instance, diversity training in workplaces, legal reforms, and inclusive technology design aim to eliminate biases and promote equality. The efficacy of such strategies relies on empirical validation and continuous evaluation. Governments and organizations worldwide are adopting these practices to foster social cohesion and reduce disparities, although cultural and systemic resistance remain significant challenges.

Conclusion

Discrimination remains a deeply rooted global social problem, driven by structural inequalities highlighted by conflict theory. While progress has been made through policy reforms and evidence-based interventions, persistent disparities across the United States, South Korea, and France reflect the complex, systemic nature of discrimination. Continued efforts, guided by sociological insights and empirical data, are essential for fostering more equitable societies where resources and opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, or technological access.

References

• Frickey, A., Murdoch, J., & Primon, J. L. (2005). From higher education to employment: Inequalities among ethnic backgrounds in France. European Education, 37(4), 61-74.
• Hutchison, E. D. (2010). Social justice and social work: Oxford bibliographies online research guide. Oxford University Press.
• Kim, S. S., Chung, Y., Subramanian, S. V., & Williams, D. R. (2012). Measuring discrimination in South Korea: underestimating the prevalence of discriminatory experiences among female and less educated workers. PloS one, 7(3).
• Lahey, J. N., & Oxley, D. R. (2018). Discrimination at the intersection of age, race, and gender: Evidence from a lab-in-the-field experiment (No. w25357). National Bureau of Economic Research.
• Oliver, M. N. (2008). Racial health inequalities in the USA: The role of social class. Public health, 122(12), 1440.
• Racism and discrimination in France. (2019, March 7). InterNations.
• Stanford Center on Poverty and Inequality. (n.d.). 20 facts about U.S. inequality that everyone should know.
• The University of Hawaii System. (n.d.). Marxism and class conflict.
• The United Nations. (n.d.). Social discrimination reports.