1. we discussed the four major schools of feminist thought (gender difference, gender inequality, gender oppression, and structural oppression). Briefly outline the major beliefs of each. Why does each school of thought believe women are at a disadvantage? Who/what is oppressing them in each circumstance? How does each school of thought believe women will overcome this oppression? Which of the four schools of thought do you most agree with and why?

2. We discussed Robert Merton’s structural functionalism. Provide a description of the three basic postulates of functional analysis. Describe his criticisms of these postulates. Discuss his ideas of dysfunctions and nonfunctions and provide examples of each. What is a manifest function and a latent function, and provide an example of these functions for a system such as slavery? Why are latent functions and unintended consequences not the same thing? Very briefly, how do you feel about Merton’s ideas?