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1. Compare and contrast the functionalist view of social stratification and the conflict theory’s view of social stratification. How does social stratification influence the daily interactions of individuals? How do systems of class, based on factors such as prestige, power, income, and wealth, influence your own daily routines, as well as your beliefs and attitudes? Illustrate your ideas with examples from everyday life as well as include a recent news piece on stratification or inequality. Include a brief description and link for your news story (a full citation is not required).

2. Visit the Spent site and complete the activity (select “continue to spent” and then “accept the challenge”). You will be asked to make a series of choices related to this week’s topic of stratification and social class in society. Please note that some of those choices may address difficult or sensitive issues related to inequality in society.  When you have completed the activity, provide a reflection on the activity, focusing on a sociological analysis incorporating this week’s concepts from the readings. What was the most interesting or difficult decision that you were asked to make for the activity?

3. This week we are examining stratification at both the local and global level. For this discussion, examine the two collections of photographs linked below then analyze them using the readings and theories on stratification in the U.S. and around the world. Explain why you selected this theory or perspective using specific examples. What similarities or differences did you notice in the photographs? How does this relate to what we have learned this week?

Photos of children from around the world with their favorite toys 30 pictures

What the world eats hungry planet

Discussion Guidelines