How to Write a Compare #038; Contrast Essay in Sociology a College-Level Guide for Students

How to Write a Compare #038; Contrast Essay in Sociology a College-Level Guide for Students The principle of writing a compare and contrast essay is seemingly simple: you take two or more things (concepts, phenomena, events, organizations, etc.) and analyze them side-by-side, indicating what they have in common and what makes them different. However, when it comes to realization, many students find out that the task is much more complicated than they were led to believe. An essay of this type should be more than just an enumeration of similarities and differences – you should offer an overarching idea that brings all the points you discuss together and offers a bigger-picture conclusion. It may be especially complicated in case of sociology, because this discipline usually deals with relatively abstract topics, and analyzing them properly requires skill and deep understanding of the underlying principles at work. Using this guide, however, you will be able to find your way through these difficulties even if you do not have a prior experience of writing such essays. How to Choose a Rewarding Topic for a Compare and Contrast Essay in Sociology Choosing a topic may be troublesome, especially if your professor does not limit you in any way. Sociology is a broad subject, and trying to pick a topic without having any indication of where to look leaves many students confused. If you do not already have a topic you would like to write about, follow these steps. 1. Define Your Limits Is your choice limited in any way? Did your professor delineate a general theme you should cover? If he/she did not, better do it yourself, it will make your job easier. Here are a few suggestions of what you can limit your choice to: Topics related to your current course. If you have studied some information that can be relevant for your essay, it can save you time you would otherwise spend looking for sources; Topics you know a lot about. What we mean here is not just personal background knowledge about a particular subject, but rather an access to a source of information that is not immediately available for public – e.g., if you know somebody from an organization that has records relevant for a particular venue of sociological research; Topics you have a strong personal opinion on – writing when you are personally invested in the subject matter is always easier and faster than when you try to deal with a topic that does not particularly interest you. It produces better results as well. 2. Brainstorm After you have more or less delineated the area you intend to cover, start brainstorming for viable ideas. Sociology is a convenient discipline in the sense that it is possible to find suitable subject for research in the most mundane things. The format of a compare and contrast essay demands that you run a comparative analysis of two or more entities. Consider looking for things to compare based on the following: Geographical or national differences. E.g., if you intend to write about the measures of controlling and limiting criminal activities, you can compare approaches to this problem in different countries; Cultural differences. A society’s approach to dealing with a problem is vastly dependent on its culture. Compare two or more cultures in how they deal with an issue in question; Differences in time. Society changes over time, and a society in its current state can have little to nothing in common with itself just a decade or two ago. Compare a state of an issue at two different points in time; Technological differences. The emergence of new technologies causes vast changes to the way society operates. Compare an issue based on how it is treated in more and less technologically developed societies. 3. Gather General Information Once you have decided upon the entities you intend to compare, start gathering information about them, starting with the most basic sources: encyclopedias, dictionary entries and so on. This will help you decide if there are enough points of contact between the subjects (meaningful comparative analysis requires its subjects to be relatively similar, even if you intend to focus on the differences between them). If you run into trouble at this stage, it is better to look for another topic than to try and salvage this one. 4. Define the Frame of Reference Frame of reference is the context within which you put the entities you intend to compare. It may be an idea, a theory, a sociological issue, a common theme, a group to which all these entities belong, etc. It is better to build your frame of reference on the information from a specific source rather than your own thoughts. For example, if you compare the approach of dealing with unemployment in two different countries, try to find a reliable scholarly source covering the subject. 5. Word Your Title and Formulate Your Thesis Statement Choose the final wording for your title, but first you have to create a specific thesis statement. A thesis statement is a declarative sentence that points out the main idea of your essay. It is different from title or topic – these tell what your essay is about. A thesis statement tells what you think about its subject matter. For example, â€Å"Crime prevention in the USA and China† is a topic. â€Å"Compared to the American approach, crime prevention in China relies on constant and all-encompassing surveillance and easily encroaches upon basic human rights under the pretext of efficiency† is a thesis statement. A thesis statement should be: Short (a sentence long, two at the very maximum); Specific (no ambiguities or vague wording); Focused (containing a single point. An essay is too short a paper to hold more). If you cannot write a thesis statement that would fit these requirements, it may be the sign that you need to modify the topic and title. Here are some topics you can come up with using this approach: Social Views on Marriage and Cohabitation in the USA of 1950s and Today; Balancing Work and Family: How Women Deal with the Problem in the USA and France; The Role of Family Ties in Great Britain and Spain: A Comparative Analysis; Single Parents in the USA and India: Common Issues and Notable Differences; American and Japanese Parenting Styles: Differences, Similarities, Results. Writing and Structuring a Compare and Contrast Essay in Sociology The most important issue about writing a compare and contrast essay in sociology is how you decide to structure it – otherwise it is quite similar to all other types of essays. There is a number of structure types to choose from: Lens/Keyhole Comparison If you use this approach, you not so much compare two entities, but analyze one of them using another as a lens. As a result, A and B are not present in the essay on equal terms, but you use A as a framework or context for discussing B. This approach is particularly useful if you want to show a subject from an unusual point of view, challenge the stability of how it is perceived or provide unusual critique of a status quo that seems obvious in isolation but becomes questionable when viewed from a rarely considered direction. For example, we are all so used to American parenting and upbringing style that we do not question its viability. However, if we look at it through the lens of a drastically different cultural approach (e.g., Chinese or Japanese one), we can discover that the things are not as clear-cut as we used to believe. Point by Point In this approach, you identify a number of crucial characteristics according to which you compare A and B, and analyze how they stand in relation to them side by side. This approach is especially useful if A and B stand in clear opposition to each other and have definite and recognizable stances on a variety of issues. However, use it carefully, as a long essay written in this way starts looking as a Ping-Pong game. You can prevent this effect by limiting the number of times you alternate between A and B – either by cutting on the number of points you cover or grouping two or more of them together. If you do the latter, make sure these groupings are relevant. Don’t try to pay equal attention to similarities and differences – remember, your purpose is not to mindlessly compare two things but to discover an interesting pattern. For example, you can point out that although two schools of thought have notably different views on most subjects, they come to remarkably similar conclusions on a particular issue. Or on the contrary, an issue is treated almost identically in two societies, except for a single aspect that makes all the other similarities insignificant in comparison. Subject by Subject With this approach, you first analyze A in its entirety, then go on to B. To keep your essay organized, try to analyze comparable points of A and B in the same order. The order in which you analyze A and B is also important – if you have to refer to important aspects of A when you analyze B, it is better to discuss A first. The problem with this approach is that A and B are too separated from each other, and it is easy to lose connections between them. Sometimes such essays turn into simple descriptions of two entities without much in terms of conclusions. To avoid this, either refer to the first subject when you analyze the second one or write a separate fragment dedicated to summing everything up. How to Effectively Proofread a Compare and Contrast Essay in Sociology If you think that after doing an in-depth analysis your job is done, you are mistaken. 9 times out of 10, the first draft of your essay contains serious blunders that can harm your chances of getting a good grade. At the very least, by spending some time editing, proofreading and polishing it you can significantly improve its quality. 1. Take a Break Ideally, you should spend a day or two away from your essay to let your memory of its details get a little vague – this way you will see it from a fresh perspective. Of course, this is not always possible due to time constraints, so judge by your situation. Take at least a 30-minte break if you cannot afford to delay for longer. 2. Use Proofreading Tools but Do not Rely on Them Proofreading tools like Grammarly or Wordrake are somewhat better than Word’s spellchecker and can be useful in spotting some of the more blatant mistakes, but do not take what they say at face value. They often underline words and phrases without any errors and miss obvious mistakes. In other words, they can attract your attention to mistakes you did not notice, but if you have even the slightest doubts about their suggestions, don’t use it. 3. Read Your Essay Backwards By proofreading your essay backwards, either sentence by sentence or paragraph by paragraph, you disrupt the flow of argument and logical connections within the text, which forces you to focus on mechanical errors. 4. Proofread Your Essay Multiple Times Each time focus on a different aspect of your text: grammar, spelling, punctuation, word repetitions, excessive adverbs and adjectives, paragraph and sentence structure. 5. Ask Another Person to Proofread for You For example, collaborate with another student to proofread each other’s works. A person unfamiliar with the text is more likely to spot mistakes than its author. 6. Change the Way Your Text Looks Print it out and proofread on paper. Alternatively, change the font size and type. This will break your existing perception of the text, allowing you to find more mistakes. 7. Check for Missing Words Our brains are hard-wired to fill in the gaps, especially in familiar texts. As a result, you may have omitted some words and never noticed it. Reread your essay slowly and carefully, paying special attention to it. Now you simply have to print out the final draft of your essay and submit it. We hope this guide will help you get an excellent mark the next time you get such an assignment!

Afforestation in Hong Kong

Afforestation in Hong Kong Afforestation in Hong Kong is one of the topics of the on-going debate on sustainability.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Afforestation in Hong Kong specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Chinese government is trying to address the problems related to environmental problems and afforestation is seen as one of possible effective ways to solve such issues as soil erosion, vast amounts of carbon dioxide, etc. (Xin, 2012). Though, it is necessary to note that these attempts are not new as afforestation policies were introduced as far back as the end of the nineteenth century when Government Gardens and Tree Planting Departments (Hamilton, 2008). Those were first initiatives aimed at securing forests from non-sanctioned felling (Demurger Yang, 2006). Nonetheless, massive afforestation policies were launched only after the World War II. The situation in the region was really alarming as the aftermaths of the war were dev astating and it was time to come up with effective solutions (Xi, Bi He, 2012). Another stage of afforestation began in 1979 when a number of strategies were developed to effectively develop ecosystem of the region (Harris, 2012). Those measures head a positive impact on the environmental situation in the region as the forest cover in the area increased from 8.6% in the middle of the twentieth century to 18.21% in 2003 (Zhang Song, 2006).Advertising Looking for dissertation on ecology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, Elliott et al. (2006) claim that the strategies used are not as effective as they could be and the policies should be reconsidered. Therefore, the afforestation strategies used have raised a number of questions. Thus, the reforestation in the region has been characterised by the use of exotic tree species. This approach is supported by some researchers, but it is highly criticised as it regard ed as rather ineffective. As far as positive effects of the use of exotic trees are concerned, it is possible to note that there is certain impact on the diversity in the region (Pullar Lamb, 2012). Willoughby et al. (2007) argue that exotic species are potentially favourable for development of biodiversity in a region. Though, it is necessary to note that the researchers focused on a specific area (Britain) and the time the trees were observed is insufficient to come to particular conclusions. Liu (2003) claims that planting exotic species of trees had a favourable impact on the rehabilitation of the area due to high productivity of the chosen species. The researcher notes that some species of bamboo can help restore forest coverage in limited periods of time. Yau (1997) also supports the idea that exotic trees can be useful to ameliorate the environment which will become a good basis for the future reforestation with native species. Lee, Hau and Corlett (2005) stress that exotic species can have favourable impact as they can be used for restoration of soil system, but the researchers also argue that exotic trees are inappropriate for restoration of biodiversity in the region and, due to this, native species of trees should prevail.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Afforestation in Hong Kong specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Obviously, the majority of researchers agree that the use of exotic trees is quite limited and is inappropriate for massive afforestation of the area. The use of native species of trees is seen as the most effective strategy to effectively restore biodiversity in the area. Chen et al. (2008) provide comprehensive evidence to support their argument that the use of exotic trees is ineffective for afforestation of areas. At the same time, Elliott et al. (2006) argue that the use of exotic species can negatively affect biodiversity of the area as such species can replac e native trees. Even though, this can have no negative impact on the soil, it can negatively affect the ecosystem as natural pollinators will not be able to adjust to the new environment (Clark, 2005). Hau (2000) notes that the effectiveness of the use of native species still needs certain research as time is needed to investigate all possible outcomes of the use of this or that strategy. Nagendra and Southworth (2010) claim that biodiversity is crucial to the environment and, therefore, the use of exotic species is hazardous. The researchers believe new strategies of afforestation should be used. In particular, the use of native trees should become the major strategy (Jim, 2012). Hau (2010) also stresses that native trees should be used to restore the ecosystem as the use of exotic trees can result in degradation of biodiversity in certain sites.Advertising Looking for dissertation on ecology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Therefore, it is clear that quite extensive research has been implemented on the matter. The majority of researchers agree that the use of native trees is of paramount importance for the restoration of the biodiversity in the region and it should be the core strategy of the afforestation policies in Hong Kong. Nonetheless, it is necessary to note that the experiments were carried out in quite limited periods of time. Admittedly, investigation of the development of ecosystems and biodiversity cannot be held within a decade. Therefore, further research is essential. It is necessary to analyse the effectiveness of policies used in the middle of the twentieth century. It is also important to have a closer look at the exact species used in particular areas. Reference List Chen, L., Tam, N.F.Y., Huang, J., Zeng, X., Meng, X., Zhong, C., Wong, Y. Lin, G. (2008). Comparison of ecophysiological characteristics between introduced and indigenous mangrove species in China. Estuarine, Coastal a nd Shelf Science, 79(1), 644-652. Clark, J. (2005). Preserving Hong Kong’s Biodiversity. Retrieved from civic-exchange.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/200508_EcologicalRestoration.pdf Demurger, S. Yang, W. (2006). Economic changes and afforestation incentives in rural China. Environment and Development Economics, 11(5), 629–649. Elliott, S., Blakesley, D., Maxwell, J. F., Doust, S., Sutthathorn, S. (2006). How to plant a forest†¯: The principles and practice of restoring tropical forest. Retrieved from forru.org/PDF_Files/htpafbook/htpafbook.pdf Hamilton, S. (2008). Watching over Hong Kong: Private policing 1841-1941. Hong Kong: Hong Kong University Press. Harris, P.G. (2012). Environmental policy and sustainable development in China. Bristol, UK: The Policy Press. Hau, B.C.H. (2000). Promoting native tree species in land rehabilitation in Hong Kong, China. In S. Elliott, J. Kerby, D. Blakesley, K. Hardwick, K. Woods and V. Anusarnsunthorn (Eds), Forest restor ation for wildlife conservation. (pp. 109-120). Thailand: Chiang Mai University. Hau, B.C.H. So, K.K.Y. (2003). Using native tree species to restore degraded hillsides in Hong Kong, China. Retrieved from aseanbiodiversity.info/abstract/52001396.pdf Hau, B.C.H. (2010). Using native plant species in forest restoration and slope rehabilitation in Hong Kong, China. Retrieved from rainforestation.ph/news/pdfs/Hau.pdf Jim, C.Y. (2012). Restoration of forests associated with new town development in Hong Kong. In J. Stanturf, D. Lamb, P. Madsen (Eds.), A goal-oriented approach to forest landscape restoration (pp. 129-149). London, UK: Springer. Lee, E. W. S., Hau, B. C. H. Corlett, R. T. (2005). Natural regeneration in exotic tree plantations in Hong Kong, China. Forest Ecology and Management, 212(1–3), 358–366. Liu, D. (2003). Rehabilitation of degraded forests to improve livelihoods of poor farmers in South China. Bogor, Indonesia: CIFOR. Nagendra, H. Southworth, J. (2010 ). Reforesting landscapes: Linking pattern and process. Bloomington, USA: CIFOR. Pullar, D. Lamb, D. (2012). A tool comparing alternative forest landscape restoration scenarios. In J. Stanturf, D. Lamb, P. Madsen (Eds.), A goal-oriented approach to forest landscape restoration (pp. 129-149). London, UK: Springer. Willoughby, I., Stokes, V., Poole, J., White, J.E.J. Hodge, S.J. (2007). The potential of 44 native and non-native tree species for woodland creation on a range of contrasting sites in lowland Britain. Forestry, 80(5), 531–553. Xi, W., Bi, H. He, B. (2012). Forest landscape restoration in China. In J. Stanturf, D. Lamb, P. Madsen (Eds.), A goal-oriented approach to forest landscape restoration (pp. 65-93). London, UK: Springer. Xin, Z. (2012, March 12). Afforestation to continue into next decade. The China Daily. Retrieved from chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-03/12/content_14814759.htm Yau, F. (1997). Soil and afforestation in the Shing Mun Country Park, Hong Kong (M aster’s Thesis. The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China). Retrieved from http://hub.hku.hk/bitstream/10722/55287/3/FullText.pdf Zhang, Y. Song, C. (2006). Impacts of afforestation, deforestation, and reforestation on forest cover in China from 1949 to 2003. Journal of Forestry, 104(7), 383–387.

Should marijuana be legalized or kept illegal Assignment

Should marijuana be legalized or kept illegal - Assignment Example (Mark J. Pletcher, 2012). Investigators at The Zucker Hillside Hospital in Long Island, NY compared the performance of 50 bipolar subjects with a history of cannabis use versus 150 bipolar patients with no history of use. According to clinical data published online, the bipolar patients with a history of cannabis use demonstrate superior neurocogitive performance compared to patients with no history of use. (Raphael J. Braga, 2012). Use of marijuana for medicinal purposes remains controversial, and we do not advocate its widespread use. However, that in certain circumstances, specifically when patients are using marijuana to relieve nausea, marijuana is not associated with lower rates of adherence (de Jong, 2005). Cannabis users had better cognitive functioning than patients without cannabis use in several domains including design memory, verbal fluency, object assembly, block design, picture completion, picture arrangement, and face recognition memory (John Stirling, 2004) The majority of patients with multiple sclerosis develop troublesome lower urinary tract symptoms. The conclusions after researches: there were few troublesome side effects, suggesting that cannabis-based medicinal extracts are a safe and effective treatment for urinary and other problems in patients with advanced (Ciaran M. Brady, 2004). Pain, sleep and mood were most frequently reported as improving with cannabis use, and high and dry mouth were the most commonly reported side effects. We conclude that cannabis use is prevalent among the chronic non-cancer pain population, for a wide range of symptoms, with considerable variability in the amounts used (Mark A. Ware, 2003). Marijuana significantly reduced ratings of queasiness and slightly reduced the incidence of vomiting compared to placebo. These findings support and extend previous results, indicating that smoked marijuana reduces feelings of nausea and also reduces