Category: Political Science

M1 Written Response/Reflection Assignment
ALL RESOURCES AND READING CONTENT IS IN ATTACHED FILE. USE THOSE FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT
The purpose of this assignment is to allow you to articulate your thoughts on the resources that have been provided to enable your learning in this module. As the foundation material for the rest of the course, it is important that you are able to articulate your own views on the issues covered in the resources. Therefore, after completing the M1 resources, prepare a comprehensive summary of the material, using the questions below to guide your reflection and response.
The assignment must be completed in two parts. Part I allows you to reflect on and respond to the M1 resources, in general. Part II is designed to assess your analysis of and response to specific topics and concepts presented in the resources. Your final submission must demonstrate your engagement with all questions in Parts I and II.
Part I
1. What did you see as the most important insight or idea from the M1 resources?
2. What are your critical reactions to the M1 resources?
3. How much did you know about this subject before you completed M1 resources?
4. What do you know now that you didn’t know before completing M1 resources? Clearly distinguish and briefly describe each point.
5. How has your thinking changed after completing M1 resources?
Part II
1. Where do your ideas about “race” come from? What are the sources of your information?
2. Historian and scholar David R. Roediger has written a book entitled “How race survived U.S. History”. If you had the opportunity to speak with Professor Roediger, what explanations would you give for the persistence of “race” in U.S. society for over 300 years?
Work should be complete, precise, organized, logical, and well-supported using a variety of references drawn from the M1 resources. You may include independent sources; however, you will not receive credit without demonstrating that you have read and understood the material assigned.
Your submission will be assessed for analysis, content support, organization, effective writing style, and writing (grammar and mechanics), all in accordance with the APA style of formatting.

Comprehensive Summary of M1 Resources

Part I: Reflection on M1 Resources

1. Most Important Insight or Idea
   Identify the key takeaway from the M1 resources and explain why it is significant to your understanding of the subject.
2. Critical Reactions
   Discuss your personal and analytical response to the M1 resources. Do you agree or disagree with certain perspectives? Provide reasoning.
3. Prior Knowledge
   Describe what you knew about the subject before engaging with the M1 resources.
4. New Knowledge Gained
   Outline new insights you have acquired from the M1 resources. Clearly distinguish each newly learned point.
5. Changes in Thinking
   Reflect on how your perspective has evolved after studying the M1 resources. Highlight any shifts in understanding.

Part II: Analysis of Specific Topics

1. Sources of Ideas About “Race”
   Explain where your ideas about race originate. Consider societal influences, education, personal experiences, and media exposure.
2. Discussion on “How Race Survived U.S. History”
   If you could speak with David R. Roediger, how would you explain the continued existence of racial classifications in the U.S.? Use historical and societal examples to support your response.

APA Formatting Requirements

• Include a title page, page headers, and page numbers.
• Use level headings to structure your response.
• Provide in-text citations and a reference list in APA format.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understand the Assignment Requirements

• Carefully read the provided instructions and questions.
• Identify key points that need to be addressed in each section.

Step 2: Outline Your Paper

• Introduction: Provide background on the M1 resources and their relevance to the course.
• Part I (Reflection): Address each question methodically with clear explanations.
• Part II (Analysis): Answer specific questions using evidence from the resources.
• Conclusion: Summarize key takeaways and the impact on your perspective.

Step 3: Write with Clarity and Support Your Arguments

• Use clear and logical organization.
• Support your points with references from the M1 resources.
• Provide examples where necessary.

Step 4: Format Your Paper in APA Style

• Use a professional, academic tone.
• Follow APA formatting guidelines (title page, headings, in-text citations, and references).

Step 5: Edit and Proofread

• Check for clarity, grammar, and coherence.
• Ensure all APA citations and references are correctly formatted.

Step 6: Submit Your Paper

• Review the assignment instructions once more before submission.
• Ensure all required elements are included.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to complete your assignment efficiently and effectively!

Section One: Researching Your Field
PLEASE READ DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY – MY FIELD IS SOCIAL SCIENCES W/ A CONCENTRATION IN POLY SCI. THAT IS THE FIELD YOU WILL BE RESEARCHING – CITATION IS BASED ON YOUR RESEARCH
DIRECTIONS BELOW
• Now it’s time to think about the specific writing and formatting conventions for your field/discipline. (If you’re doing multi- or interdisciplinary studies, then choose one of your fields as the focus for this course.) Please gather information about writing conventions in your field by doing the following:
1. Start with Google. Are there any organizations affiliated with your field of study? (Any organization that’s national or international will be especially significant to the field.) Are there any publications affiliated with the organizations? (These may range from popular to trade to scholarly.) What citation system(s) are relevant to your field?
2. Go to the ESC Library (https://www.esc.edu/library/) and click on “Subject Guides.” Choose a subject that’s relevant to your field. Which databases are relevant to your field? (If none or few seem relevant, please try a different subject.)
3. Try to access a few of the major publications in your field. : https://suny-esc.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/jsearch?vid=01SUNY_ESC:01SUNY_ESC
4. Skim a few journals to get a sense of what kinds of articles they publish. Check out their “Submission Guidelines” as well.
“Researching Your Field” Response Essay: In a 3-4 page (double-spaced) paper, explain to me what you’ve learned about the writing and citation conventions in your field. (This essay does not require a thesis.)
As you’re skimming journal articles, try to read as many abstracts as possible to get a sense of different arguments/debates happening in your field. You will be writing a research paper in your field, so take notes on ideas as they come to you.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

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Step-by-Step Guide for Writing the “Researching Your Field” Response Essay:

Step 1: Understand the Assignment Requirements

• Length: 3-4 pages (double-spaced)
• Content: The goal is to explore the writing and citation conventions specific to your field of study. This means researching how to write academically, the citation system used, and identifying key publications, organizations, and databases relevant to your field.
• Focus: You don’t need a thesis for this essay, but your response should clearly explain the findings from your research about writing conventions in your discipline.

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Step 2: Begin Your Research

1. Start with Google:

   • Search for Organizations: Look up national or international organizations related to your field of study. For example:
     • For Business: The American Marketing Association (AMA), Academy of Management (AOM), or the Business and Economics Society International (BESI).
     • For Psychology: American Psychological Association (APA) or British Psychological Society (BPS).
     • For Education: National Education Association (NEA), American Educational Research Association (AERA).
   • Publications: Identify relevant journals or publications affiliated with these organizations. Some publications may be more academic, while others might be trade or popular outlets. For instance:
     • For Business: Journal of Business Research, Harvard Business Review.
     • For Psychology: Journal of Applied Psychology, Psychological Science.
     • For Education: Educational Leadership, Journal of Educational Psychology.
   • Citation System: Based on the organization, find out which citation system is commonly used in your field. For example, business may use APA or Chicago style, while humanities often prefer MLA.

2. Visit the ESC Library:

   • Go to the ESC Library website (https://www.esc.edu/library/), and click on “Subject Guides” to find the field most relevant to your studies.
   • Identify which databases are most relevant to your field. For example:
     • Business: Business Source Premier, JSTOR.
     • Psychology: PsycINFO, PubMed.
     • Education: ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), JSTOR.
   • Explore Relevant Databases: Try searching in the databases to get a sense of the types of articles published in your field. Take notes on the language, formatting, and topics.

3. Access Major Publications:

   • Use the SUNY ESC Primo link to access major publications in your field (https://suny-esc.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/jsearch?vid=01SUNY_ESC:01SUNY_ESC).
   • Look for articles or journals that are influential in your field. Skim through the abstracts to get an idea of the topics and types of arguments being discussed.
   • Submission Guidelines: If available, read the submission guidelines to understand what is expected in terms of formatting, writing style, and citation in these journals.

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Step 3: Write Your Response Essay

1. Introduction:

   • Briefly introduce your field of study and explain the importance of understanding writing and citation conventions.
   • You don’t need a thesis, but mention that you’ll be exploring the relevant guidelines you found during your research.

2. Main Body:

   • Writing Conventions:
     • Describe the general writing conventions of your field. For example, does your field prioritize clarity and conciseness? Does it tend to use more technical language or a formal tone? Are there particular styles that are encouraged (e.g., passive voice, third-person writing, or direct quotes)?
     • Provide examples from the journals or organizations you explored.
   • Citation Systems:
     • Explain the citation system used in your field. For example, is APA or Chicago more commonly used in business, psychology, or education? Are footnotes common? Or do journals in your field prefer parenthetical citations?
     • Mention any unique formatting or citation rules (e.g., citing sources with multiple authors, how to cite journal articles, or formatting book titles).
   • Key Publications:
     • Summarize the kinds of publications found in your field, such as trade publications, scholarly journals, or conference proceedings. Provide examples from your research.
     • Mention any notable journals or editorial standards they uphold.
   • Key Databases:
     • Briefly discuss the most important databases for your field and why they are essential for finding quality research. Mention the ones you explored in the ESC library.

3. Conclusion:

   • Summarize your findings regarding writing conventions, citation systems, and the key publications/databases in your field.
   • Reflect on how this knowledge will help you in your future academic or professional endeavors.

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Step 4: Final Review and Editing

• Proofread your essay for clarity, structure, and formatting. Ensure your writing is coherent, well-organized, and free from grammatical or typographical errors.
• Check for APA Style: Make sure you follow the APA format for references and in-text citations.
• Ensure Proper Flow: Ensure that each section logically flows into the next, and your essay reads smoothly.

Topic is US Veteran Centers
Create a Analysis Outline on US Veteran Centers and how they provide Restorative Justice.*

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your proposal easily!

Analysis Outline: US Veteran Centers and Restorative Justice

I. Introduction

• Overview of US Veteran Centers
  • Purpose and services offered
  • Population served (veterans from various military backgrounds)
• Definition of Restorative Justice
  • Key principles (rehabilitation, reconciliation, reintegration)
  • How it differs from punitive justice
• Thesis Statement
  • How US Veteran Centers implement restorative justice to support veterans’ reintegration into society

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II. The Role of US Veteran Centers

• Mental Health Support
  • PTSD counseling and trauma-informed care
  • Substance abuse rehabilitation programs
• Employment and Educational Assistance
  • Job training and career development programs
  • GI Bill support for higher education
• Community Reintegration Services
  • Housing assistance and homelessness prevention
  • Peer support groups and mentorship programs

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III. Restorative Justice in Veteran Centers

• Healing and Rehabilitation Over Punishment
  • Alternative approaches to addressing PTSD-related offenses
  • Court diversion programs for veterans (Veteran Treatment Courts)
• Restoring Relationships and Community Support
  • Mediation and conflict resolution services
  • Family counseling and relationship rebuilding programs
• Reducing Recidivism and Preventing Homelessness
  • Data and case studies on successful reintegration
  • Programs designed to break the cycle of incarceration for veterans

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IV. Challenges and Areas for Improvement

• Funding and Resource Limitations
  • Lack of access to adequate mental health services
• Stigma Around Seeking Help
  • Encouraging veterans to utilize available programs
• Addressing Systemic Barriers
  • Ensuring fair treatment for veterans in the criminal justice system

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V. Conclusion

• Summary of Key Points
  • How Veteran Centers incorporate restorative justice principles
  • The impact on veterans and the broader community
• Call to Action
  • Advocacy for policy changes and increased funding
  • Encouraging community involvement in veteran support initiatives

This outline provides a structured approach to analyzing how US Veteran Centers implement restorative justice, focusing on rehabilitation, reintegration, and community support.

The reading:
“Imagined communities” (Ch. 4) by Benedict Anderson, in Nations and Nationalism: A Reader
Excerpts from Benedict Anderson, Imagined Communities: Reflections on the Origin and Spread of Nationalism. Revised ed. London: Verso, 2016.
Excerpts from Eugen Weber. Peasants into Frenchmen: The Modernization of Rural France, 1870-1914. Stanford, Calif: Stanford University Press, 1976.
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Consider the following questions when writing your journal entry. You do not need to answer all questions, but you should address at least one of the questions. Aim for more than a summary, and use your write-up to show your understanding of the readings. Where possible, deepen your discussion by adding comparisons, addressing points of agreement or disagreement, or adding critiques (refer to comments given on previous assignments). Your answer should be in paragraph form with proofread, clear prose, between 300 and 500 words.
In Week 4, we will focus primarily on Benedict Anderson’s “Imagined Communities” discussion. We will read excerpts from Weber’s and Anderson’s books (see announcement for specifics). We will work on building connections between the themes introduced in Week 3 and the readings in Week 4.
How does Benedict Anderson’s discussion of “imagined communities” compare to……Smith’s ethno-symbolism? On what might they agree or disagree?
…Hasting’s discussion of English nationalism as the prototypical first nation? Compare their explanations for nation formation.
…Gellner’s focus on modernity? Compare their approaches to understanding nations and nationalism.
How does Eugen Weber’s explanation for the creation of a French nation relate to others we have read? How does he explain the nation-building and nationalism?
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Please look at the other reading from last work that i send you ok buudy, I mean these reading (Smith,Hasting’s,Gellner’s)
if you need any reading let me know

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understand the Key Concepts

Before diving into the writing, let’s break down the essential readings and ideas you’ll be addressing:

• Benedict Anderson’s “Imagined Communities”: Anderson argues that nations are socially constructed communities, created through shared symbols like language, education, and print media. These “imagined” communities don’t need face-to-face interaction to exist; the idea of belonging to a nation is enough to create a collective identity.
• Etnho-symbolism (Smith): Smith’s approach focuses on the role of shared myths, symbols, and traditions in shaping national identity. He emphasizes the role of ethnic groups or “ethnies” that form the basis for national communities.
• Hastings on English Nationalism: Hastings explores how English nationalism was established and evolved, focusing on the early development of national consciousness.
• Gellner’s Focus on Modernity: Gellner argues that nationalism is primarily a product of modernity—emerging from industrialization and the need for standardized education, communication, and bureaucracy to manage a complex, modern state.
• Eugen Weber on French Nation-building: Weber examines the development of the French nation through the consolidation of linguistic and cultural unity, particularly in rural areas. He connects this to modernization and state-building.

Step 2: Choose a Question and Compare the Readings

Select one of the questions provided and think about how the different theorists (Anderson, Smith, Hastings, Gellner, and Weber) approach the formation of nations and nationalism. Let’s consider a potential structure for each question.

Example Comparison (Anderson vs. Smith on Ethno-symbolism):

• Key Agreement: Both Anderson and Smith agree that nations are constructed communities, but Smith focuses on the ethnic origins of those communities. Smith’s ethno-symbolism argues that the myths, symbols, and shared memories of a community are foundational to national identity, while Anderson sees nations as more fluid and constructed through modern systems (like print capitalism).
• Key Disagreement: Anderson would likely disagree with Smith’s emphasis on ethnic continuity as the basis for national identity. Anderson focuses on the role of print media and modern institutions in creating imagined communities that may not necessarily have ethnic origins, challenging Smith’s focus on long-standing ethnic groups.

Example Comparison (Hastings on English Nationalism vs. Anderson on Imagined Communities):

• Key Agreement: Both discuss the role of shared identity in nation formation, with Anderson emphasizing the role of imagined communities and Hastings focusing on English nationalism.
• Key Disagreement: Hastings may view English nationalism as a more organic, historical development linked to territorial and linguistic unity, while Anderson argues that nationalism can emerge even without direct, face-to-face interaction. Anderson’s argument would likely downplay the historical depth Hastings assigns to nationalism.

Example Comparison (Gellner on Modernity vs. Anderson’s View of Imagined Communities):

• Key Agreement: Both Gellner and Anderson agree that modern institutions such as education, media, and communication play a key role in fostering national identity.
• Key Disagreement: Gellner ties nationalism closely to modernity and industrialization, arguing that nations emerge to fulfill the need for standardized systems in a modern state. Anderson, however, sees nationalism as more related to the idea of imagined identities that emerge through new forms of media, suggesting a more cultural approach to nation-building.

Step 3: Provide Your Analysis and Connection

Now, after comparing the theorists, reflect on how they each explain the formation of nations.

For example, if you’re comparing Anderson’s “imagined communities” to Weber’s explanation of French nation-building, you could analyze how Weber sees the creation of a French identity as tied to the consolidation of linguistic and cultural unity, while Anderson would emphasize how the idea of “Frenchness” spread through print media and imagined connections between people.

Step 4: Organize Your Journal Entry

• Introduction (50-75 words): Introduce the readings and the theorists you will compare.
• Body (200-350 words): Select 1 or 2 comparisons and go into depth about the similarities and differences between the thinkers. Use specific examples or ideas from the readings to back up your argument.
• Conclusion (50-75 words): Wrap up your comparison, summarize your key insights, and relate them to the broader understanding of nation-building and nationalism.

Step 5: Review and Edit

• Proofread your entry for clarity and ensure it addresses the prompt effectively.
• Be sure to stay within the 300-500 word range and check for grammar and flow.

This structure will help you organize your thoughts and critically analyze the readings. You’ll demonstrate a deep understanding of the material by comparing the different views on nationalism.

Examine both the positive and negative impacts of nationalism on a political system of your choice (one country only). What are the main goals of the nationalist agenda in your case study? Are there competing groups, with different versions of nationalism? What progress have they made to date and what are experts forecasting in the upcoming year?
Remember to identify your sources using MLA formatting. An in-text citation requires a parenthetical citation, for example: (Smith). Then, provide a formal citation at the end of your posting.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

1. Choose Your Country

First, decide which country’s political system you want to examine through the lens of nationalism. For example:

• India: Exploring Hindu nationalism and its impact on politics.
• Turkey: Analyzing Turkish nationalism under the leadership of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
• United Kingdom: Looking at the rise of nationalism in Scotland or the impact of Brexit.
• United States: Examining American nationalism and its effects on policies and the political climate.

2. Research Nationalism in Your Chosen Country

To address the question effectively, you need to understand the different forms of nationalism within the country you select. Nationalism can take many shapes, such as:

• Civic Nationalism: Based on shared citizenship and values.
• Ethnic Nationalism: Based on shared ethnicity or cultural heritage.
• Religious Nationalism: Linking political identity with religion.

Research whether there are competing nationalist movements or ideologies within the country. For example, in India, you may explore Hindu nationalism (Hindutva) versus secular nationalism.

3. Assess Positive and Negative Impacts

• Positive Impacts: Nationalism can unify people, foster a sense of identity, pride, and self-determination. For example, in Turkey, nationalism under Erdoğan has led to political stability and a strong sense of national pride.
• Negative Impacts: On the flip side, nationalism can lead to exclusionary policies, oppression of minorities, and internal conflicts. In the UK, for example, nationalism was a driving force behind Brexit, which has caused political division and economic uncertainty.

4. Identify the Main Goals of the Nationalist Agenda

What are the nationalist movements hoping to achieve? Here are some examples:

• National Unity: Often, nationalist movements aim to unite a nation under a singular national identity.
• Self-determination: Nationalists may seek greater political autonomy or independence, like the Scottish National Party pushing for Scottish independence.
• Cultural Preservation: Nationalists might seek to preserve a particular culture or religion, as seen in India’s push for Hindu-centric politics.

5. Examine Competing Nationalist Groups

In many countries, you’ll find competing groups with different versions of nationalism. For example:

• In India, there’s a debate between secular nationalism and religious (Hindu) nationalism.
• In Turkey, nationalism has evolved under Erdoğan’s leadership, but some factions, like the Kurdish groups, have their own form of nationalism.

6. Assess the Progress Made and Future Forecasts

What have these nationalist movements achieved? Have they won elections, implemented policies, or achieved greater political autonomy? For instance:

• In the United Kingdom, the Brexit referendum marked a significant victory for nationalist forces, but the aftermath has been divisive.
• In Turkey, Erdoğan’s party has used nationalism to solidify power, but experts are questioning its sustainability given economic challenges.

Experts’ forecasts will likely touch on whether these movements will continue to grow or face resistance in the upcoming years. Will they maintain momentum or encounter setbacks?

7. Write Your Post

Your post should focus on:

• Analyzing the positive and negative impacts of nationalism on the political system of your chosen country.
• Discussing the main goals of the nationalist agenda.
• Exploring the presence of competing nationalist groups and their influence.
• Reviewing the progress they’ve made and expert predictions for the near future.

8. Provide MLA Citations

Use MLA formatting for in-text citations and a Works Cited page at the end of your post. For example:

• In-text citation: “Nationalism has often been seen as a force for unity, but it can also lead to exclusion” (Smith 45).
• Works Cited:
  • Smith, John. Nationalism in Modern Politics. Publisher, 2020.

Reading Assignment 3
Social Disorganization and Collective Efficacy
Introduction, Tammy L. Anderson / https://www.researchgate.net/profile/T-Anderson-2/…
Introduction and Growth of Chicago and Differentiation of Local Areas from Juvenile Delinquency and Urban Areas, Clifford R. Shaw and Henry D. McKay /
Collective Efficacy Theory: Lessons Learned and Directions for Future Inquiry, Robert J. Sampson /
The Urban Ecology of Bias Crime: A Study of Disorganized and Defended Neighborhoods, Ryken Grattet /
Connections: The Prison Community from a Social Disorganization and Collective Efficacy Perspective, Lori Sexton, Critical Thinking Questions /
Deliverable Length: 2-3 pages (Each answer should be 1-1.5 pages long)
Answer two questions:
1. Shaw and McKay’s delinquency studies link the growth and differentiation of Chicago to social disorganization and crime rates in city neighborhoods. Summarize the various concentric zones of the map of Chicago as discussed on pp. 109-110. Which zone has the highest rates of crime/delinquency and why?
2. Discuss in detail Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy (pp. 128-129). Do you think collective efficacy adequately is an adequate explanation for lower crime rates in city neighborhoods? Why or why not?
3. Sexton attempts to apply the concepts of social disorganization and collective efficacy to the study of prisons as total institutions. Do you think her argument is convincing? Pay particular attention to her treatment of prison violence and collective efficacy as it relates to the community of transgender prisoners.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Writing an essay about social disorganization and collective efficacy can seem like a daunting task, but it’s much easier when you break it down into manageable steps. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your paper is structured, insightful, and well-supported by evidence from the readings. Let’s dive right into it!

Step 1: Understand the Assignment

You are tasked with answering two of the three critical thinking questions based on the readings provided. Here’s the breakdown:

• Question 1: Summarize Shaw and McKay’s concept of concentric zones and explain which zone has the highest crime/delinquency rates and why.
• Question 2: Discuss Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy and evaluate if it’s an adequate explanation for lower crime rates.
• Question 3: Discuss Sexton’s application of social disorganization and collective efficacy to the study of prisons, focusing on violence and transgender prisoners.

Each of your answers should be between 1-1.5 pages long, making your total paper 2-3 pages.

Step 2: Brainstorm Your Answers

Start by reviewing the specific pages referenced in the readings. Focus on the key concepts that need to be addressed in your responses. Below are some brainstorming tips for each question.

• Question 1:
  • Review Shaw and McKay’s theory of social disorganization and their map of Chicago’s concentric zones.
  • Identify the key zones: central business district, transition zone, working-class zone, residential zone, and commuter zone.
  • Analyze which zone has the highest crime rates and explain why it is so.
• Question 2:
  • Review Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy on pages 128-129.
  • Think about how social cohesion and shared expectations for social control help prevent crime.
  • Consider whether this idea fits well in explaining crime rates in neighborhoods.
• Question 3:
  • Review Sexton’s arguments, especially how she applies social disorganization and collective efficacy to prisons.
  • Pay close attention to how she discusses prison violence and transgender prisoners.
  • Think critically about whether her argument is convincing and whether the prison setting can be explained through these sociological concepts.

Step 3: Develop a Thesis Statement

Each of your answers should have a clear thesis statement that directly addresses the question. For example:

• For Question 1: “Shaw and McKay’s concept of concentric zones reveals that the transition zone in Chicago had the highest crime rates due to its social disorganization, characterized by poverty, migration, and a lack of community control.”
• For Question 2: “Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy provides a compelling explanation for lower crime rates in city neighborhoods by emphasizing the importance of social cohesion and mutual trust, though it may not fully account for all crime-reduction factors.”
• For Question 3: “Sexton’s argument that social disorganization and collective efficacy apply to prisons is thought-provoking, but it requires further consideration of how institutional power dynamics affect collective behavior, especially regarding transgender prisoners.”

Step 4: Create an Outline

Outlining your responses will help organize your thoughts. Here’s a simple structure to follow for each answer:

1. Introduction
   • Briefly introduce the theory or concept discussed in the question.
   • Include your thesis statement that directly answers the question.
2. Body
   • Summarize the key ideas or theories (e.g., Shaw and McKay’s concentric zones, Sampson’s collective efficacy, or Sexton’s application of theories to prisons).
   • Provide evidence and examples from the readings to support your argument.
   • Analyze the effectiveness of the concept in explaining crime or prison dynamics.
3. Conclusion
   • Recap the key points you made.
   • Provide your final evaluation (e.g., whether the theory adequately explains the phenomenon discussed).

Step 5: Write the Essay

With your outline in hand, start writing your response for each question:

1. Question 1: Discuss the concentric zones and their relationship to crime. Explain which zone has the highest crime rates and why. Use examples from the readings.
2. Question 2: Discuss collective efficacy, its meaning, and how it relates to crime rates. Evaluate whether it is a strong enough explanation for lower crime rates in neighborhoods.
3. Question 3: Discuss Sexton’s argument and evaluate whether her application of social disorganization and collective efficacy to prison settings is convincing. Focus on her treatment of prison violence and transgender prisoners.

Step 6: Review and Revise

Once you’ve written your responses, review your work carefully:

• Check clarity: Are your arguments clear? Does each paragraph address the question directly?
• Evidence and citations: Have you provided enough evidence from the readings to support your arguments? Make sure to cite the texts properly.
• Grammar and spelling: Correct any errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar.

Step 7: Final Touches

After revising, read through your paper one final time to ensure it’s well-organized and addresses each question thoughtfully. Make sure your total length is within the required range (2-3 pages).

Conclusion

By following this guide, you should now feel confident about approaching the assignment. Breaking down the questions, outlining your answers, and supporting your arguments with evidence from the readings will help you write a strong, structured paper. Don’t forget to cite the text and stay focused on answering each question thoroughly.

The next portion of your exam is to prepare a power point presentation on a comparative analysis of two state constitutions. (For this assignment, please use Pennsylvania and Virginia) You are required to choose at least 2 of the following categories to compare:
individual liberties, criminal justice, requirements for governor, legislative responsibilities, or checks and balances of the 3 branches. (Choose whichever 2 or more that you would like to)
The following items must appear in your power point:
Grounds of Comparison
Frame of Reference
Thesis
Organizational Scheme
Linking State A to State B
Conclusion

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Here’s an outline for your PowerPoint presentation on a comparative analysis of the Pennsylvania and Virginia constitutions. This framework will help you build a clear and structured comparison.

Slide 1: Title Slide

• Title: Comparative Analysis of the Pennsylvania and Virginia Constitutions
• Subtitle: A Comparative Study on Individual Liberties and Legislative Responsibilities
• Your Name
• Date

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Slide 2: Grounds of Comparison

• Introduction to Comparison:
  • Pennsylvania vs. Virginia: What makes their constitutions interesting to compare?
  • Both have distinct historical contexts and legal traditions, yet both share a commitment to democratic principles.
  • Chosen Comparison Areas: Individual Liberties and Legislative Responsibilities.

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Slide 3: Frame of Reference

• What is a Frame of Reference?
  • Define the constitutional context of each state.
  • Brief overview of how constitutions provide the framework for governance in each state.
• Purpose of Comparison:
  • Explore the unique elements of each state’s approach to the rights of citizens (individual liberties) and the legislative process.

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Slide 4: Thesis

• Main Argument:
  • While both Pennsylvania and Virginia recognize the importance of individual liberties and define legislative responsibilities within their constitutions, each state approaches these concepts with distinct nuances reflective of their unique historical and social circumstances.

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Slide 5: Individual Liberties in Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania Constitution:
  • Key clauses ensuring individual liberties (e.g., freedom of speech, religion, etc.).
  • Protection of rights in the Bill of Rights section of the Pennsylvania Constitution.
• Examples:
  • Specific constitutional protections such as the right to bear arms and the right to privacy.

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Slide 6: Individual Liberties in Virginia

• Virginia Constitution:
  • Similar protections but with different language and emphasis on certain rights.
  • The Virginia Declaration of Rights (1789) – often regarded as the basis for individual liberties in the state.
• Examples:
  • Right to life, liberty, and property; protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

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Slide 7: Comparing Individual Liberties

• Key Similarities:
  • Both states protect fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.
• Key Differences:
  • Virginia’s emphasis on a right to life and property has a stronger historical foundation in its constitution.
  • Pennsylvania includes more explicit protections in its Bill of Rights.

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Slide 8: Legislative Responsibilities in Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania Constitution:
  • Bicameral legislature (Senate and House of Representatives).
  • Legislative powers outlined in Article II.
• Key Functions:
  • Lawmaking, appropriation of funds, and checks on the executive.

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Slide 9: Legislative Responsibilities in Virginia

• Virginia Constitution:
  • Also has a bicameral legislature (Senate and House of Delegates).
  • Legislative powers outlined in Article IV.
• Key Functions:
  • Similar responsibilities with distinct differences in the specific powers of each legislative body.

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Slide 10: Comparing Legislative Responsibilities

• Key Similarities:
  • Both states have a bicameral system with clearly defined legislative powers.
• Key Differences:
  • The structure and election process for Virginia’s legislature are somewhat different, with the Virginia House of Delegates having more power in initiating revenue bills.
  • Pennsylvania’s constitution provides for a stronger executive oversight over legislative actions.

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Slide 11: Linking State A (Pennsylvania) to State B (Virginia)

• Connecting the Two States:
  • Despite differences in structure, both states value individual liberties and share a similar overall framework of governance.
  • Both emphasize a bicameral legislature but differ in legislative procedure and the balance of power.

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Slide 12: Conclusion

• Summary of Key Points:
  • Pennsylvania and Virginia both protect individual liberties but in slightly different ways.
  • The two states share similar legislative structures, with some distinctions in legislative powers and processes.
• Final Thought:
  • While each constitution reflects the values of its time and place, the core values of democracy, freedom, and justice unite them, making them cornerstones of American governance.

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Slide 13: References

• List of Sources:
  • Include references to the Pennsylvania Constitution, Virginia Constitution, and relevant academic sources used in your presentation.

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This structure ensures that you cover all the required elements in your presentation while keeping your analysis clear and organized.

Note: part of writing an essay involves following basic instructions. Please follow these:
• The essay should mobilise evidence to support an answer. Please make use of theoretical and historical materials/empirical examples found in the literature
• DO NOT use sub-headings to divide up your text – but do use paragraphs (clearly separated from each other)
• Include a single, full, alphabetically ordered bibliography (ie don’t divide into books, articles, videos, etc)
• Quote sparingly and only as evidence rather than as a replacement for your own words – try not to quote descriiptive text, only distinctive remarks and opinions. Always cite source and give page numbers
• Spell check; paginate; and double-space your lines.
use as many references needed to prove your point; I’m looking for a first. I will upload a file with readings and they are expected to be used (not all, but some). If you have any questions pls ask. NO AI.

Comparative Politics, Comprehensive Exam Ph.D. level please look at the document for more details.

And please send me an email to send you the reading material for the exam

Comparative Politics, Comprehensive Exam Ph.D. level please look at the document for more details.

And please send me an email to send you the reading material for the exam