Assignment:
Over lunch, a co-worker says, "You're studying sociology; you can answer a question for us." He suggests that the reason Asians and Asian Americans, as a group, are over-represented in math and science degrees and careers is because they are naturally the most intelligent of human groups. Take a deep breath and tell him what you've learned in this class that could be a cultural reason for this phenomenon. References to specific theories required.
A friend suggests that gender equality is a reality in the US. He is certain that men have the same load of domestic responsibilities that women do, statistically speaking. Cite statistics from your Readings and LN that refute his belief. Consider both physical labor and time, and emotional burdens, as drains on the average woman living: in a family with children; living with only a male partner; living with children and no male partners. Leave the statistics on gay/lesbian families for another day; you don't want your friend's head to explode with too much data all at once.
Consider how female infanticide, sex-selection abortion and death through neglect may be related to availability of food in China, India and other cultures. Look at social structures that determine distribution of food in a culture and in a family and social rules concerning support and descent, and other issues that you learned about in this class. Cite Readings and/or LN.
What do Harris and others suggest as a hypothesis to explain patterns of people-eating and insect-eating? Why is it more common in certain societies than in others? References required.