Posted: May 12th, 2023

Social Problems

Social Problems . For this discussion question, you may choose one of the following two prompts.

Prompt 1: You recently read an article explaining how, in American society, questions of fact are increasingly becoming questions of politics. The article on climate change showed how politics and information intersect in increasingly confusing ways. What is another example of this of which you are aware, or which you have experienced? What do you think the future looks like for a society that can’t agree on matters of fact?

Prompt 2: In this lesson, you will think about violence as a social problem. But what about violence as the solution to a social problem? Consider, for example, that the very successful gay rights movement started with multiple nights of street battles between police and clubgoers in New York City in 1969. How do you think social problems should be solved? Do you think violence is ever acceptable, or are non-violent means the only legitimate ones? Why?

Your answer must be written in the form of at least two (2) full paragraphs,

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Prompt 1: The intersection of politics and information is becoming increasingly confusing in American society, and climate change is just one example of this phenomenon. Another example is the issue of vaccines. In recent years, vaccine hesitancy has been fueled by misinformation campaigns and conspiracy theories, leading to a decline in vaccination rates and the resurgence of preventable diseases such as measles. The politicization of this issue has made it difficult for people to distinguish between fact and opinion, leading to confusion and mistrust.

In a society that can’t agree on matters of fact, it becomes increasingly difficult to solve problems and make informed decisions. If people are unable to agree on the existence and severity of climate change or the safety and efficacy of vaccines, it becomes impossible to implement effective policies to address these issues. In such a society, decision-making becomes driven by ideology rather than evidence, leading to further polarization and division. The future looks bleak if we continue down this path, as we will be unable to address the challenges facing our society.

Prompt 2: Violence as a solution to social problems is a complex and controversial issue. While violence has sometimes been a catalyst for change, such as in the case of the Stonewall riots, it should not be considered an acceptable or legitimate means of solving social problems. Non-violent means should always be the first resort in addressing social issues, and violence should only be used as a last resort in situations where all other options have been exhausted.

Non-violent means of addressing social problems, such as civil disobedience and peaceful protest, have a long history of success in achieving social change. These methods are grounded in principles of respect for human dignity and democratic ideals, and are more likely to result in lasting and sustainable change. Violence, on the other hand, often leads to further violence and perpetuates cycles of aggression and conflict.

In conclusion, while violence has been a tool for social change in some instances, it should not be considered a legitimate means of solving social problems. Non-violent means of addressing social issues, such as civil disobedience and peaceful protest, should be prioritized and utilized whenever possible. Violence only perpetuates further violence and undermines the democratic principles that underpin our society.