Perspectives on the Social Order
Dr. Ambler
Fall, 2005
Paper 1 Assignment:
"A Quantitative Analysis of My Community"
Write a paper doing the following:
1. Using a
quantitative data base such as the U.S. Census, a statistical abstract, or
other data about your own home county, select a number of variables that
describe the people, the housing, and the economy of your county. Everyone should get basic information such
as the total population, percentages for race, the poverty rate, and
median/mean family income. Whatever other data you want to use to
describe your community is your choice.
In addition, you should find data to compare with your county. Using these same variables, obtain data for
either the country as a whole or the state as a whole. Then you have some basis for knowing whether
your county is unusual in some way or is fairly typical regarding race,
economic factors, and whatever else you choose. Based on these comparisons and your own knowledge of your
community, draw some conclusions about the nature of your community. Since we are studying inequality, including
class, race, and gender inequality, be sure to focus on those factors.
2. The paper should
be at least 800 words double-spaced documenting your sources including
on-line sources using MLA style.
Provide a word count at the end of the paper.
Due: Thursday, Sept.
29.