1A: Give an example of a commodity. Use this example to define “commodity” and the different types of value according to Marx’s economic theory.

2A: Define class, status, and party in modern society and describe the kind of power wielded by each.

3B: Compare and contrast mechanical and organic solidarity. Be sure to address how these are related to division of labor in society.

4A: How is the “self” an object of sociological study (rather than psychological)?Draw from theorists of the self to make your argument.

5A: What are manifest functions, latent functions, and dysfunctions according to Robert Merton? Give a detailed example of one social institution to demonstrate your understanding of the concepts.

1B: Explain how Karl Marx’s theories continue to be relevant in a contemporary world. Do his theories accurately describe the conditions of 21st century life? What pieces are missing or underdeveloped for explaining our world? How has other theorists critiqued or refined Marxist theory? Use specific references from both Marx and other theorists.

2B: Compare and contrast how Structural Functionalism and Symbolic Interactionism theorize society. Drawing from specific theorists within each perspective, give an example of how they might study a single social problem in different ways. What kinds of questions would they ask? Which perspective do you think would best explain your example and why?