Theories

1. Structural Functionalism.  What is the function (or functions) of the virus in our society? What purpose(s) does it serve, and how does it help society maintain stability and order? Discuss how notions of the sacred and profane are characterized. Are there manifest and latent functions of the virus? And are there any dysfunctions in it? 

2. Conflict Theory. What forms of inequality are revealed in the virus? In particular what does it say about class, race, gender, sexuality, or other inequalities? Whose interests are being served or exploited? Who suffers and who benefits during the pandemic?

3. Symbolic Interactionism. What does the pandemic mean to society as a whole? What does it mean to individual members of society? Can the virus/pandemic have different meanings for different individuals or groups of individuals? How do those meanings get constructed in interaction? And how does the virus/pandemic shape and influence our everyday lives?

Is there any one theory that you believe can explain the pandemic and its affect on society?

Please type in a Word document and upload.Use a 12 point font. 1 inch margins, and double spacing. You will probably need about two pages to explain the theories appropriately.