W10.2-GUO YING

 1. Summary

Social structure refers to the relationships between different entities or groups, emphasizing that society is divided into relevant groups or sets of roles. For example, "social stratification" divides society based on distinctions like race and class. Social structure influences people's social treatment and explains how "structural determinants" occur. It also affects significant social institutions such as the economy, law, and culture. Modern sociologists study various types of structures, including relational, communicative, and social metric structures. Social systems theory simplifies these structures and provides the conceptual tools needed for analysis. Structural and agency theory offers a complex analytical framework, explaining how individual behavior is influenced by and can influence or change structures. However, the concept of social structure may obscure systemic biases, such as gender. Modern analysis attempts to consider these factors, but a comprehensive analysis of overall social life remains challenging.

2. Interesting point.

Modern sociologists have studied various types of social structures, such as relational structures and communication structures, and theories like social system theory and structure and agency theory have provided in-depth understanding and analytical tools. However, despite efforts to consider factors like gender, the concept of social structure may still conceal systemic biases, warranting further research and attention.

3. Question

In what ways do systemic biases, such as gender biases, manifest within social structures, and what steps can be taken to address them?

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Spirit Behind Wikipedia: Collaboration, Talk, and Trust- WANG YIKE 2.1

In a world overflowing with online information, Wikipedia stands out—not just for its vast range of content, but for how it is created. After watching “Why Wikipedia” and “How to Leave (and Read) a Wikipedia Talk Message,” and reading the introduction materials from Joseph Reagle’s Good Faith Collaboration, I’ve come to see that Wikipedia is more than a website—it’s a community built on trust, transparency, and a shared belief in the value of open knowledge. The “Why Wikipedia” video explains that Wikipedia is driven by a radical idea: anyone can edit. This openness has obvious risks, but surprisingly, it works. Why? Because Wikipedians follow a core principle called “good faith.” The idea is that editors assume others are acting with good intentions. They might disagree or make mistakes, but they are seen as partners in a shared mission, not enemies. This idea of good faith collaboration is explored deeply in Reagle’s writings. In the Foreword, Lawrence Lessig praises Wikipedia as an ...
Read more

LIN AIJIA Extra credit blog

China and Globalization The relationship between China and globalization is one of the most significant themes in 21st-century international politics, economics, and cultural exchange. As the world's second-largest economy and the largest developing country, China plays multiple roles in the globalization process: as a beneficiary, a driver, and a participant in shaping the rules.   Historical Background   Reform and Opening-Up & Globalization   China's adoption of the reform and opening-up policy in 1978 marked the beginning of its full integration into the globalization process. [1]   By introducing foreign investment and joining international economic organizations (such as the World Trade Organization), China gradually transformed from an agriculture-based nation into a global manufacturing hub.   Accession to the WTO   In 2001, China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) [2] , a critical milestone in the globalization process. Through mark...
Read more