Understanding the Apocalypse
SOC 110: Mid- Term Exam #1
The following is an essay exam. Everyone must answer the first question, and then choose two of the remaining three questions. Within each response you will be required to demonstrate expertise of the material we have covered to this point in the course. Although parts of the below questions will solicit specific conceptual understandings, the vast majority of what you use to support your answer will be entirely up to you. This is not to say that I am not seeking specific types of responses in these questions; indeed, there are several key concepts that you will be expected to address given the parameters of each individual essay question. Remember: rote recitation will not receive nearly the credit as a more thoughtful response.
A) Drawing upon any apocalypse scenario we have covered, or will cover in class, explain the difference between the functionalist, conflict, and interactionist viewpoints. (50 points) **
A) Explain the three different millennial perspectives according to McMinn. B) How do each of these factor into an apocalypse scenario? C) provide detailed examples of each of these millennial perspectives drawing upon topics we have covered in class (25 points)
Drawing upon any one of the feature films we have watched (not the youtube clips), explain how this film could be analyzed according to: A) the “veil” that is lifted given this apocalypse scenario; B) the change in social roles given the apocalyptic event; C) the ways in which preparation and response to the apocalyptic event demonstrate a change in the integration of the parts of society. (25 points)
A) Drawing upon the Aveni reading and the lecture on impact events, explain the significance of the countdown of the Mayan calendar. B) discuss the anxiety that we have about the direction in which science is taking us. C) explain how the philosophy of Heaven's Gate founder Marshall Applewhite illustrates the themes from both the reading and lecture. (25 points)
** Everyone must answer this question!
Please write each response in an essay format. When addressing specific terms from each question, do not list these in a bullet point or outline format. This is a take-home exam. This is entirely open book, but you may NOT work together on this exam. All exams will need to be brought to class by 9:15am on Wednesday, March 8th. All exams received after 9:15 am will be docked five points per hour.
Good Luck!!
Adam :0)
