Analyze important developments in sociological theory, including developments in European sociological theory that influenced the growth of theory in the United States.

1. After completing the reading for week one concerning Durkheim and Merton, please address the following in a brief essay: 1) analyze in detail the basic tenets of the functionalist perspective, and compare this to at least one other perspective in sociology; 2) although Durkheim and Merton did not write during the same era in sociology, explain where their ideas are similar, and both contribute to a functionalist understanding of society; and 3) utilizing and citing one recent case in the media through television or radio broadcast, newspaper, and so forth, provide one key example of a social issue that shows how the functionalist perspective can be used to make society better. 2. Based upon your reading content from Week 2, concerning the work of Jurgen Habermas, please address the following in a brief essay: 1) explain and give a key example of at least three components of his theory of communicative action; 2) explain why or why not you think that applying his theory of communicative action would be for the benefit of society; 3) provide a concise definition of the “life world,” and give at least one example of how the life world has been compromised, or damaged, in modern society. Disclaimer Originality of attachments will be verified by Turnitin. Both you and your instructor will receive the results. Course Objectives: This course assessment will evaluate your ability to do the following: Define sociological theory. Identify major bodies of theoretical work in contemporary sociology and the theorists associated with them. Analyze important developments in sociological theory, including developments in European sociological theory that influenced the growth of theory in the United States.