Theory Critical Examination (CE) #1 Instructions

Theory Critical Examination (CE) #1 Instructions
1. Select two different assigned theorists from Modules 1 — 8. Separately discuss and analyze their terms/concepts/ideas from the chapters, readings, and/or the slide presentations. Give examples of how their ideas fit in society today. Each critical examination should be at least a FULL two pages, so four pages total for both theorists. If it is a little longer, that is fine. Be sure to apply terms/concept(s) from the Modules, and/or the slide presentations. Use at least two direct quotes with citations (ASA style) from an academic source (such as text, module slides, or me) per response to support your points. You may also relate the ideas to current events. Write about one theorist, then the next, then include your reference page. It is all one paper, but the theorist discussions are separate. No late work is accepted. You must upload the entire paper as ONE attachment file under ASSIGNMENTS. The attachment must be Microsoft Word, Microsoft Works, PDF, or Word Pad (RTF) format. I cannot open Mac files (Pages), so you will have to convert it. Turnitin will check for plagiarism, so DO NOT COPY FROM THE INTERNET! 2. Papers must be typed. Use a standard 12 size font in either: Tahoma, Times New Roman, Courier New, Calibri, or Arial. The paper must be double spaced. 3. Put your heading (name and such) in the header of the paper — you do not need a cover page. Put page numbers at the footer of the paper. Before each critical examination, write the theorist’s name.
Theorist 1: Karl Marx

Karl Marx was a German philosopher, economist, and sociologist who developed the idea of Marxism. He argued that capitalism is inherently exploitative, and the only way to achieve a fair society is through the abolition of private property and the establishment of a socialist system. In his book, “Capital: Critique of Political Economy,” Marx argues that labor is the source of all value, and capitalist exploitation occurs when workers are paid less than the value they create.

One of Marx’s key concepts is the theory of alienation. According to Marx, alienation occurs when workers are separated from the products of their labor, from the production process, and from themselves. This alienation is caused by the capitalist system, where workers are treated as mere cogs in a machine, and their labor is used solely to increase profits for the owners. As a result, workers become disconnected from the work they do, and their labor becomes a means of survival rather than a fulfilling part of their lives.

Marx’s ideas are still relevant today, particularly in the context of economic inequality and the exploitation of workers. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the unequal treatment of workers, with many essential workers being underpaid and undervalued. Additionally, the increasing wealth gap between the rich and the poor has led to widespread protests and calls for economic justice.

One example of how Marx’s ideas apply to society today is the movement for a $15 minimum wage. Advocates for a $15 minimum wage argue that it is necessary to ensure that workers are paid a fair wage for their labor, and to address the inequality created by a system where a small group of people own a disproportionate amount of wealth. By advocating for higher wages and better working conditions, workers are fighting against the alienation caused by the capitalist system.

In conclusion, Marx’s ideas on capitalism and socialism continue to be relevant today. His theory of alienation and his critique of capitalism offer valuable insights into the exploitation of workers and the unequal distribution of wealth. As we continue to navigate the challenges of the modern economy, it is important to consider Marx’s ideas and to work towards creating a more just and equitable society.

References:

Marx, K. (1867). Capital: Critique of Political Economy. London: Penguin Classics.

Mandel, E. (1971). Late Capitalism. London: Verso.

Theorist 2: Michel Foucault

Michel Foucault was a French philosopher, social theorist, and historian of ideas who developed the theory of power/knowledge. According to Foucault, power is not just something that is held by individuals or institutions but is instead a diffuse and pervasive force that operates at every level of society. Power is not just something that is imposed on individuals but is also something that individuals can exercise over others.

One of Foucault’s key concepts is the idea of the panopticon. The panopticon is a type of prison design where a central tower allows guards to observe all the prisoners without the prisoners being able to see the guards. This design creates a sense of constant surveillance and control, even when the guards are not present. Foucault argues that the panopticon is a metaphor for the modern surveillance society, where individuals are constantly monitored and controlled by institutions such as governments and corporations.

Foucault’s ideas are still relevant today, particularly in the context of the internet and social media. The rise of the internet and social media has led to a proliferation of data collection and surveillance, with governments and corporations collecting vast amounts of personal data about individuals. This data is used to monitor and control individuals, often without their knowledge or consent.

One example of how Foucault’s ideas apply to society today is the debate over online privacy.