Using Sociology to Bridge the Opportunity Gap - 1193 Words

The current socio-economic climate of the United States and the world at large can best be characterized as one in which access to both opportunity and wealth are increasingly scarce to those living in poverty. While there are a number of contributing factors that create this mass inequality, the scope of this argument will focus on education. The American schooling system is lagging behind globally and the current programs in place are ineffective to the point of being detrimental. This paper asserts that specific changes to the public education system will produce positive outcomes not only in the global ranking but will be additionally beneficial in bridging the opportunity gap and countering the growing culture of classism.†¦show more content†¦Bringing sociology to public schools would have the additional positive effect of reversing the growing culture of classism and its accompanying deficit theory. This theory, rooted in idealism, asserts that â€Å"poor people are poor because of their own moral and intellectual deficiencies (Collins, 1988)†. Theorists promote this theory by â€Å"drawing on well-established stereotypes† (Gorski) and ignoring the systemic conditions rigged to maintain the status quo. By controlling the conversation as an issue of deficient individuals rather than one of unequal access to basic human rights the cycle continues from generation to generation. While it may seem unlikely, the introduction of sociology into the classroom would be vital in reversing this damaging culture which has been cultivated over generations. Beyond introducing individuals to the sociological imagination necessary to navigate society; introducing sociology into the public school curriculum will allow individuals to fully understand the systemic disadvantages forced upon them, their parents, and eventually, even their children. With the knowledge of the uneven access to basic human rights, individuals can, like the Saints in Chambliss’s study, interact with the structures of society in aShow MoreRelatedCstep Essay1089 Words   |  5 Pagesacademically vibrate. CSTEP focuses on addressing the educational gap that exists between minority and majority students. Students can attend various programs like Brown bag luncheons, conferences, and graduate fairs. The program partners with departments within the university as well as other university partners hips to help to support the development of future STEM professionals. CSTEP students are provided both research and conference opportunities as well. The University at Albany Summer Research ProgramRead MoreEthics and Moral Values in Professional Context1719 Words   |  7 Pagesethics is equivalent to moral philosophy. 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