soc 2

PART 1
Vessing (2011) states, “a society needs a variety of social institutions in order to function adequately. However, it does appear that not all citizens have equal access to participation in them, and that one’s social class and ascribed characteristics may limit one’s ability to benefit from them. This disparity results in unequal access to all that the institutions have to offer” (p. 197). Review the various social institutions discussed in Chapters 10 and 11 of the text, Sociology: Beyond Common Sense. Based on what you have read in the text, describe at least two institutions that do not provide equal access? If you were asked to implement changes from a sociological perspective, what changes would you suggest? Support your answer with detailed examples. 
PART 2
According to conflict theorists, the persistence of social class inequality can be linked to the educational institutions in the United States. Although education is asserted to be a social equalizer, many argue that the educational system is a mechanism of social reproduction that maintains social inequality rather than ensuring equality of opportunity. For this discussion, you will read Chapters 10 and 11 of the text, Sociology: Beyond Common Sense, and review the article, Foundations of Educational Inequality. Answer the following questions: What factors influence the quality of education that an individual receives?  How is social class reproduced through the educational system?  How is this continuing educational inequality impacting other social institutions?