Project instructions:
1) Some social scientists argue that marriage is becoming weaker and social policy needs to change to promote marriage (traditional perspective). Others argue that

public policy should focus on programs to help the poor, education, etc. rather than focus on marriage (liberal perspective). Contrast and compare the two perspectives

by using specific information from the readings. HINT: (Traditional perspective is offered by Cherlin & Gallagher and Coontz & Ferstenburg present the liberal

perspectives).

2) The article ?More Than Just Race? focused on explaining ?cultural theories? vs. ?structural theories? to explain racial inequality. Define and describe each of

these theories with specific details from the readings. Give an example of how each theory would explain racial inequality in society. For example, what type of

cultural & structural argument might be used to explain why Asian-Americans tend to have more resources and African-Americans have less?

3) Research shows that African American women have the lowest marriage rates and highest fertility rates out of wedlock. What are some of the reasons used to explain

this?

4) What do YOU think about the politics of marriage? Should the government intervene and create new public policies to encourage marriage? Why or why not?

As always, be sure to use specific examples from the readings. DO NOT simply paraphrase powerpoints?I am grading to see if you have a full understanding of the

material in the readings.