Question 1

Conduct a functional analysis of a social institution of your choice (other than ones we have talked about in detail in class such as Valentine's Day and gender norms).Begin by explaining why this institution is significant for sociological inquiry.Be sure to explain major concepts you use, and employ the ideas of manifest and latent functions, anomie, and sacred/profane (where relevant) in your analysis.Also be sure to consider functional alternatives. Your grade will be based partly on the originality of your insight and analysis, so you are encouraged to choose an unusual institution to analyze.