Durkheim argued that a distinction between the sacred and the profane was a key characteristic of religion. Thinking about your own culture, what are some examples of ideas or objects that are considered “sacred”?
What are the rules concerning how these objects or ideas should be treated? What are the penalties for people who do not follow these rules?
Prompt 2 (Weeks 11-12: Race)
García describes the reasons that race is considered a “discredited concept in human biology.” Despite this scientific fact, most people continue to believe that race is “real.” Why do you think race has continued to be an important social reality even after it has been discredited scientifically?
Prompt 3 (Weeks 13-14: Gender)
Reflect on the various ways you have “learned” about gender and sexuality throughout your life. Which influences do you think had the biggest impact?
Your reflection should address each question or theme raised in the prompt that you select, as well as draw on relevant course materials, including readings and lecture presentations. While you are still expected to write your reflection in a first-person perspective (i.e., using “I” pronouns), this final assignment is more similar to a traditional academic research essay than the previous reflections.
REQUIREMENTS: Your reflection should be between 500 and 750 words, not including bibliographic citations or references. Your submission may be either single- or double-spaced and must include a bibliography or works cited.
You must cite at least three course concepts and reference at least two outside sources and at least one chapter from our textbook. You are strongly encouraged to define course concepts and ideas in your own words, e.g., paraphrasing rather than directly quoting course materials.
This assignment is due at 11:59 p.m., Sunday, May 8. All assignments must be submitted via Canvas using TurnItIn; no email copies will be accepted. Your assignment must be submitted in .pdf or .doc/.docx format. Please review the course syllabus for additional information on late assignments.
