DUE:  March 17    
Points: Up to 20 
LENGTH:  1,000+ words (4 to 5 pages)

In lecture, we discussed the concept of "privilege" in the context of]
conflict theory, competition for resources (such as jobs, status,
or even just a normal life). The argument was that some groups carry
more baggage then other groups because of what one student called
"ascribed status," or the "stigma" some groups bear. More advantaged
groups don't carry that baggage. That's what we call "privilege."

Read this definition of WHITE PRIVILEGE

Next, read Eric Zorn's two pieces on class privilege:
   -- Article #1
   -- Article #2

Next, read this article on White Privilege

You may substitute "white" for "class," "heterosexual," or "age."
The intent of the assignment is to reflect on ways that ideology and culture
combine to give some groups a special advantage that other groups may not
have. Your task:

1) Critique the article. Is it convincing? What are the strengths and
weaknesses?

2) Select a focal point (heterosexuality, race, class, age) and reflect
on the ways in which you are "privileged" over those not in your group.

3) Drawing from earlier readings (eg, Singer, Marx, Plato, anybody else 
we've discussed), explain whether this "privilege" is a form of unjustice
(and why) or whether it is no big deal and just the way things are.

4) Conclude with something profound that shows you've been following
the discussions and tie it to functional, conflict theory, or both.

Remember: This is an ESSAY and not just a point-by-point response.
Also, it helps to read class material before writing.



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Any questions, drop me a note. Jim Thomas - jthomas@sun.soci.niu.edu