For this discussion post we want to explore the concepts introduced by Mills in "The Promise". In particular, Mills identifies the difference between "personal troubles" and "social issues". For Mills, it is of utmost importance for the sociologist to clarify the difference when investigating social phenomena. In contemporary sociology, we see the difference between these concepts as such:
- Personal Troubles
- Occur within the character of the individual and within the range of her/his immediate relations with others
- Social Issues
- Involves the organization of many factors outside the individual’s control and immediate environment
Characteristics include:- Negatively affects a larger number of people
- Stems from a specific social cause
- Can only be solved through social action
To further engage in these ideas, I would like you to watch the following video clip and respond to the questions below. After posting your response, make sure that you provide a thoughtful and developed response to at least two (2) of your fellow classmates' posts.
Video Link: The People's Grocery | global oneness project
Use the following questions to formulate your response:
- What were the social phenomena that The People’s Grocery observed in their community?
- Was it a personal trouble or an social issue?
- What was the Historical context of this community in west Oakland? What Social Structures were being addressed or impacted? Who were the main people being impacted by this social phenomena (Biographies)?
- What social actions did the members of the People's Grocery implement in order to address the problems they observed?
This Discussion Post will be available for you to respond to from 10/1/10 - 10/3/10.
*When responding, make sure you state your name and course you are enrolled in.
*When responding, make sure you state your name and course you are enrolled in.
