Social & Behavioral Sciences Annotations
Connor G. Bridges
California State University, Monterey Bay
Esbensen, F., & Huizinga, D. (2006). Gangs, Drugs, and Delinquency In A Survey Of
Urban Youth. Criminology, 31(4), 565-589. (25 pages)
The authors begin by examining research and survey methods utilized by various
scholars that play significant roles in past and present gang research. A position of
concern is established around the reliance on old gang knowledge for
contemporary gang problems. Research indicates less modern gang studies and
data often have little applicability in current gang structures and dynamics. The
authors establish that although there are differences between historical
backgrounds a common theme revolves around groups committing crime.
Esbensen and Huizinga question whether gang members participate in criminal
activity due to gang affiliation or if they were predisposed to delinquency. In
order to gain further insight, the authors perform a study on 35 selected serious or
chronic juvenile offender households in Denver. Gang members within the
research group were found to be significantly more active in all types of
delinquency, including drug sales and drug use. This article provides an in depth
examination of a small sample, yielding thought provoking and original research.
McGloin, J. (2005). Policy and Intervention Considerations Of A Network Analysis Of
Street Gangs. Criminology & Public Policy, 4(3), 607-635. (29 pages)
The author examines the breadth and history behind the various definitions of
criminal street gangs. Within the definitions it becomes clear two distinct groups
become apparent. The first suggests that gangs are organized and structured
groups that rely on certain specialized roles. The second focuses on a more
minimal amount of structure, lacking cohesion and organizational hierarchies.
McGloin emphasizes that gangs with more defined structure possess a significant
amount of accountability that often is not present with less organized gangs.
The author discusses the importance of establishing knowledge about current
structure and organizational status when attempting to define a local gang
presence. An additional perspective is the use of such information and date by law
enforcement to target and overwhelm potential gang problems. McGloin cites the
Los Angeles Police Department’s use of gang literature in order to locate points
of vulnerability. This article provides a unique and refreshing look at the
framework and different definitions of criminal street gangs.
Rosenthal, L. (1973). Gang Loitering and Race. The Journal of Criminal Law and
Criminology, 91(1), 99-160. (62 pages)
The article opens with a brief historical context of the author’s experiences and
exposures while working in law enforcement. The author moves to examine race
and its relationship to law enforcements perception of gang members. He explains
that anti-gang loitering ordinances as well as racial friction can be directly linked
to imbalances within the criminal justice system. The ordinances and laws require
very little in terms of reasonable suspicion and therefore are a potent policing
tool. The proactive nature contributed to increased public debate over strategies
and applications employed by law enforcement. Rosenthal discusses the proposed
“underclass” and its emergence within urban slums. He establishes a connection
between the class and gang crime while touching on the presence of theory.
Rosenthal examines the impact of social norms in specific neighborhood and the
role that gangs play. It is noted that residents displayed willingness to change as
well as upward mobility. This article although complex, brings interesting
research to the table.
Rubin, H., & Rubin, I. (n.d.). Qualitative Interviewing: The Art Of Hearing Data. 1-41.
(41 pages)
The authors begin by exploring the opportunities presented through the utilization
of qualitative research and its various methods. Within the text qualitative
research is emphasized as a tool that allows the researcher to develop a strong
understanding of feelings, experiences, and thoughts. The authors express that
performing qualitative research as well as personal interviews is a skill that
requires a solid foundation. The versatility and adaptability of qualitative research
allows for an endless number of geographical possibilities as well as research
proposals.
Within the article, is becomes apparent that each type of interview can be
executed so that it will warrant certain results such as information about culture,
processes, meanings, and problems. A parallel between conversations and
interviews produces an understanding of key similarities as well as important
differences. One of the main differences is that a qualitative interviewer attempts
to establish patterns as well as pick up on specific word selection and terminology
during the interaction. Both authors provide an excellent summary of qualitative
research as well as some important uses for specific methods. Additionally, the
text leaves the reader with a strong understanding of key differences within
various research procedures.
Zheng, C. (2012). Understanding the learning process of peer feedback activity: An
ethnographic study of Exploratory Practice. Language Teaching Research, 16(1),
109-126. (18 pages)
The text is an ethnography that examines the multiple learning perspectives and
processes that are present in a college level English class for non-English majors
within the country of China. The article touches on the utilization of Exploratory
Practice and its various principles and guidelines. Zheng explains methods and
patterns such as classroom observation, discourse analysis, discussion, interviews,
and student writing. Zheng focuses first on the productivity and efficiency of
peer-reviewed feedback in a classroom setting consisting of 20 men and 8
women.
The author examines participant’s attitudes and behaviors in relation to the
provided feedback activity. To analyze the obtained data, Zheng established
protocols consisting of listening to audiotapes, review of observation notes, and
open discussions of student interpretations. Ideals developed throughout the study
included a pattern of dominant-dominant interaction, where students would
emphasize their personal ideas and oppose the ideas of other students. Zheng
outlined patterns within the research that consisted of collaborative, expertnovice, dominant-dominant, dominant-passive, and passive-passive patterns. The
author provides a unique insight into the classroom setting, partnered with a broad
understanding of the Exploratory Practice.
Atkinson, R. (n.d.). The Life Story Interview. Qualitative Research Methods, 44, 1-55.
(56 pages)
Within the article Atkinson outlines the framework and importance of
interviewing and storytelling. The importance of telling a story includes the
process of sharing certain aspects such as events, experiences, and feelings. An
individual’s life story can be directly utilized as a form of qualitative data such as
oral history and life history. The author emphasizes that once interviews and
discussions have been transcribed, they can be an excellent source for locating
patterns within the research.
The text also discusses a variety of classic functions that can connect and educate
individuals within communities and societies. Stories can help educate within a
range of categories such as moral, ethical, and social. Atkinson emphasizes that
when an individual shares his or her story it can be interpreted scientifically as
well as artistically. The oral story captures far more then just qualitative data; it
captures the emotion and personality that represents each individual’s experience.
Atkinson provides a thought provoking analysis of the importance of storytelling
and its shared value. The article leaves the reader with a broad understanding of
how storytelling can be used within the qualitative world.
Potter, J. (1996). Nature of Qualitative Evidence / Issues of Evidence Gathering. In An
Analysis of Thinking and Research About Qualitative Methods (pp. 80-115). Santa
Barbara, California: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. (36 pages)
These two chapters examine various aspects of qualitative research methods
including a broad summary of how to effectively gather data as well as some of
the complications with gathering evidence. Potter states that qualitative evidence
can be categorized as micro-level, macro-level, and mid-level. Micro can include
items such as quotes, diaries, memos, and letters. Macro includes categories such
as norms, cultural standards, values, and rituals. Mid can consist of television
shows or various bodies of work. The actual gathering of the evidence falls into
three main methods. These methods are listed within the text as document
examination, interview, and observation.
Document examination is summarized by the author as investigating patterns and
trends through various forms of documentation. Potter explains that interviewing
is the process by which questions and answers are shared and communicated
verbally. Observation is summarized as engaging in direct contact with an
individual and obtaining data and notes from each session. Potter outlines
numerous aspects of qualitative research and provides the reader with an in depth
understanding of the various methods and types of evidence.
Bandyopadhyay, M. (n.d.). Tackling complexities in understanding the social
determinants of health: The contribution of Research Open Access ethnographic
research. BMC Public Health, 1-9. (9 pages)
The article examines how to adapt and overcome to various that occur within the
social aspects of health. Bandyopadhyay provides a summary of the framework
and structure behind a well designed and well organized ethnographic study. The
author provides samples and examples including studies performed in India.
Within each ethnographic study it is important to cross-reference information and
attempt to locate themes, similarities, as well as any differences.
Bandyopadhyay explains that by conducting a thorough ethnographic study,
social and cultural determinants can be outlined within the category of health and
its surrounding fields. The author emphasizes the importance of planning and
coordinating the steps of the study. Equally important is the ability to maintain
fluidity within the research projects structure and process.
Within the text it become apparent that a vital product of ethnographic research is
the developed understanding of individual experiences, practices, and policy as
they relate to the field of health. The article provides an informative and thorough
description of ethnographic research partnered with an example.
Bloor, M., Frankland, J., Thomas, M., & Robson, K. (n.d.). Focus Groups In Social
Research. Sage Publications. (22 pages)
Throughout the text the authors examine the various ways to implement and
execute focus groups to aid with research methods. The focus group itself can be
utilized as a main method to interpret and organize numerous societal norms and
meaning. A vital element to each focus group is the diversity among participants.
The authors argue that without the appropriate amount of diversity in the group
there will not be a range of views, meanings, or experiences.
The article also discusses the effectiveness of focus groups that consist of
strangers versus pre-existing social groups. Strangers supposedly remain more
open to opinions and views whereas pre-existing social groups may be less likely
to do so. The authors convey the idea that although pre-existing social groups
have advantages, it does not mean that the groups consisting of strangers are
ineffective. The text indicates that individuals that are familiar with each other
and have established relationships are more likely to regularly attend a focus
group.
The authors discuss numerous aspects of focus groups that provide the reader a
broader understanding of their use. The text is thought provoking and the authors
ideas are engaging and accurate.
Groleau, D., Pluye, P., & Nadeau, L. (n.d.). A mix-method approach to the cultural
understanding of distress and the non-use of mental health services. Journal of
Mental Health, 16(6), 731-741. (11 pages)
The article examines the utilization of a multi-method approach to conducting
research within the culture of mental health services. The multi-method approach
relies on the use of strengths from both qualitative and quantitative research
methods to provide a broader more balanced result from research. The authors
emphasize that by partnering the two methods creates a stronger understanding of
the social, cultural, institutional, and political roles within the mental health field.
The text moves to discuss a research project called Pathways and Barriers to
Mental Health (PBMH). The authors utilize the PBMH project to provide specific
examples and details regarding the implementation of a multi-method research
approach. The sample group of the project consisted of 2,400 community
members is Montreal. The project focused on the use of quantitative methods and
was followed with a qualitative approach that examined social and culture
contexts.
The authors provide an interesting and thought provoking evaluation of the multimethod research approach. The two methods chosen were especially energizing
because of my studies involving both methods.
Silverman, D. (2013). Doing Qualitative Research. SAGE Publications Ltd. P.1-441 (441
pages).
Silverman’s Doing Qualitative Research provides an in depth and broad
examination of how to plan and execute qualitative research. The text is an
excellent research tool that helps outline and guides the necessary steps to
perform effective and efficient qualitative research. Silverman discusses the
various uses for qualitative research throughout the book as well as citing specific
example on when and how qualitative data can be collected. Within the text many
forms of qualitative research are discussed. These forms consist of but are not
limited to storytelling, ethnography, focus groups, case studies, surveys, and
participant observation.
Throughout the text, Silverman emphasizes that qualitative research can
dramatically assist with organizing and structuring large amounts of emotional
data. One essential way to understand and summarize culture is through
implementing the various research strategies that qualitative research has to offer.
To further develop themes and norms about a culture multiple methods can be
used. Some of these methods consist of observation, field notes, unstructured
interviews, structured interviews, semi-structured interviews, as well as journals.
Of these methods interviews can be one of the most personal and emotional ways
to gain insight into an individual’s culture.
Silverman explains the various ways to conduct interviews as well as provide
specific examples. Interviews allow the researcher to form a connection through
the data that allows them to deeply examine the research topic. The researcher
will often take notes during the interview that will allow them to start organizing
the most important details. Quantitative research although powerful, does not
establish the same emotional connection by examining details. Silverman explains
the many differences between both qualitative and quantitative research. Both
methods have differences but each can be used to solidify many aspects of social
research. While outlining the importance of strong interview techniques the
author includes numerous example of poor interview techniques. These specific
and direct examples allow the reader to develop a thorough understanding of
interview strategies.
The text includes various steps that are necessary to build the proper foundation
for a strong qualitative research proposal. Before a researcher begins executing
research strategies or procedures, a research question should be outlined. This can
be performed be examining prior studies and prior literature that is relevant to the
topic of interest. Silverman explains that the approach to developing a research
question can be very different between qualitative and quantitative, but
similarities are present. Silverman organizes the necessary steps to developing a
research question in a simple and manageable way.
Silverman’s Doing Qualitative Research is a powerful and well-organized book
that provides an exceptional perspective to the reader. I found the text to be dense
but easily comprehendible. For being a research-based topic the material
presented by Silverman is surprisingly intriguing and stimulating. The specific
real-world examples that are present throughout the text allow the reader to
develop an ongoing understanding of each topic as it is presented. This style of
presenting new material is extremely engaging and refreshing. The text allowed
me to develop a satisfying and valuable understanding of qualitative research and
its many uses within the social world.
Golafshani, N. (2003). Understanding Reliability and Validity in Qualitative Research.
The Qualitative Report, 8(4), 597-607. (11 pages).
Within the text the author examines and summarizes the various uses of reliability
and validity within the field of qualitative research. Golafshani provides the
reader with a structured foundation for both reliability as well as validity while
exploring its various elements. Reliability is broadly defined within the article as
a consistent return of results over a period of time. It also represents the chances
that a study can be reproduced and result in similar findings. Golafshani expands
on the concept of reliability by touching on the method of “test re-test”. This
method enables researchers to truly examine the reliability and consist of their
research projects.
Validity is summarized as the process that determines whether the research
measured what it was intended to measure. The article conveys that during the
implementation of most validity methods, additional researches will provide aid
in order to reduce any biases or complications. The author then broadly
summarizes qualitative research and its various uses among the world of research.
The thoughts and definitions provided throughout the text are thought provoking
and well executed.
Mason, J. (n.d.). Qualitative Researching. On Multiple Methods, and Linking Methods,
80-107.
The article provides an evaluation and summary of sampling and selecting within
the category of research design. Mason explains various methods and guidelines
behind selecting efficient sample sizes as well as how to correctly identify those
that will participate in the research project. She discusses that qualitative research
does not often rely on probabilities, but when sampling and selecting it can be an
essential tool. The text emphasizes that by sampling and selecting you are
creating a census of a larger population that would normally be impossible or
impractical.
The author includes numerous categories that may be sampled or selected during
periods of research preparation. These categories include but are not limited to
people, groups, countries, organizations, policies, discourses, social practices, and
activities. Mason articulates that the text is a template for sampling and selecting
and not an exact formula. The thoughts and guidelines presented by the author are
thorough and well executed. The text is engaging and leaves the reader with a
strong understanding of sampling and selecting.
Stichter, J. (2004). An Analysis of Trends Regarding Proactive and Ecologically Valid
Interventions in Applied Research. Education and Treatment of Juveniles, 27(2),
86-104.
The article examines the importance of ecological validity within applied research
and various interventions. The current position was established from a foundation
of research collected over the last 22 years. The results indicate an increase in
assessment and antecedent-based interventions; yet do not indicate an increase in
ecological validity. Stichter then evaluates traditional behavior modification and
its implementation within population groups of students with disabilities. Other
sources determined that these behavior modification are often ineffective and a
violation of privacy.
The text includes an additional review of procedures related to intervention
research within the educational, behavioral, and psychological categories. The
review mainly consisted of evaluating scholarly articles and past data sets. Within
the original review 10 articles are examined and subsequently coded by two
separate researchers. The article contains multiple graphs and plots to establish a
powerful foundation to accompany the text. These elements contribute to the
readers understanding and comprehension of the presented material. The article
although dense provides a text-based summary that is corroborated by appropriate
visual aids. The author provides a complex yet thought provoking summary of
ecological validity and interventions.
Shenk, G. (n.d.). Domination & Resistance: Twentieth Century US Histories. 1-5. (5
pages)
Within the text, Shenk discusses and examines various social inequalities, power
systems, dependencies, and political struggles. These topics are paralleled with
early United States history to show how each concept played an impactful role in
the way that domination and resistance development in America. Shenk offers
perspectives that challenge both groups that agree and disagree with the proposed
systems. The author organizes historical events related to conflict and oppression
that are a result of assumptions.
Shenk articulates that white men adopted slavery, patriarchy, and even murder to
dominate and secure that which they desired. These elements of oppression in
early American history relied on the foundation of what was believed to be
normal, good, and socially beneficial. Shenk interprets the idea that being married
to a woman, possessing slaves, and owning property provided you a seat at the
political and social table.
To comprehend dominance an understanding must be developed of the dominator
and the dominated. Examining the relationship of domination that is occurring
through both perspectives allows for a more revealing product. The systems and
topics explained by Shenk are thought provoking and particular. The challenges
that surface throughout the text awaken the reader to a unique side of American
history.
Hurtado, A. (1996). Relating to Privilege and Political Mobilization: Toward a
Multicultural Feminism. In The Color of Privilege (pp. 1-19). The University of
Michigan Press. (19 Pages).
Hurtado examines various aspects and elements of oppression and inequality. She
advocates that each group or category experiences these inequalities differently
and has their own specific and unique relationship to white men. The author
concentrates on the socioeconomic relationships of various ethnicities of women
to white men. Increasingly, women are becoming the sole supporters of their
families. The number of single-parent families has almost doubled since 1970;
one in five families with children is now maintained by a women (Hurtado 5). She
adds that non-Caucasian women are more likely to be the head of household
throughout family dynamics.
The author moves to assess that the definition of a woman can quickly change
based on the racial classification and other biological factors. Hurtado emphasizes
that sexuality constructs a woman, yet additional social factors play a substantial
role. The author summarizes classifications by both Gilman and Blumstein,
identifying that a difference in race leads to a difference in perception. All of
these factors contribute to the process where groups are distinguished yet centered
on power imbalances. The text is informative and well researched. It provides the
reader with a well-balanced and direct perspective.
Scott, J. (1992). Domination, Acting, and Fantasy. In The Paths to Domination,
Resistance, and Terror (pp. 55-84). Berkeley: University of California Press.
(30 Pages)
Scott examines the social process of “acting” and its relationship to social
subordination and various systems of power. He articulates that etiquette and
politeness can be elaborated when an individual in the channel of communication
represents a potential threat or alliance. Within the text, a proposed term of
“hidden transcript” is used to represent discourse and practices that occur
“offstage”.
Scott moves to explain how systematic domination is an institutionalized way of
assembling labor, goods, and services. The system is surrounded by concepts of
superiority and inferiority. There is no system of domination that does not
produce its own routine harvest of insults and injury to human dignity – the
appropriation of labor, public humiliations, whippings, rapes, slaps, leers,
contempt, ritual denigration, and so on (Scott 63).
The author touches on the relationship of domination and fantasy. He offers a
pertinent example that examines the psychological issues of racial domination.
Scott explains that a link is present between a psychological need to control and
suppress anger through the reliance of fantasy. Historically these fantasies
allowed the oppressed to ponder ideas of retaliation and revenge, essentially
providing an outlet. Although complex, the text offers unique and interpretive
examples of social domination.
Young, I. (1997). Asymmetrical Reciprocity: On Moral Respect, Wonder, and Enlarged
Thought. In Intersecting Voices: Dilemmas of Gender, Political Philosophy, and
Policy (pp. 39-56). Princeton University Press. (18 pages).
Young discusses the diverse opportunities and methods in which individuals
tackle social and moral issues when establishing what is right or just. The main
component to effective dialogue consists of examining issues from the various
points of view. The author compares the ideas and concepts of Habermas’s
theory, arguing that it is neither possible nor morally desirable for persons
engaged in moral interaction to adopt one another’s standpoint (Young 39). She
expands on the process by contemplating that in each instance of communication,
every individual is positioned based on personal history and social standing.
The author articulates that when attempting to represent the perspective of others
critical components may not be interpreted openly. When dialogue and
perspective are received from a less open place less is learned from the interaction
of others. This limited exchange is what hinders effective and valuable
communication. Each component to the text provides a thought provoking insight
into the many differences between symmetrical and asymmetrical reciprocity.
Curry, D., & Thomas, R. (1992). Community Organization and Gang Policy Response.
Journal of Quantitative Criminology, 8(4), 357-374.
The authors examine the relationship between various agencies that have
developed continuous contact with juvenile gang members. The text relates how
agencies have adopted numerous diverse policies for dealing with youth gang
problems. Curry and Thomas emphasize that gangs are more of a community
issue opposed to an individual or national problem. In the article the theories of
Frederic Milton Thrasher support the idea that a well-coordinated community
effort is a strong and effective form of intervention.
The ideals of Thrasher support a response from law enforcement, court,
corrections, schools, and social services to support the efforts of combating
criminal street gangs and its effect on juveniles. Curry and Thomas cite multiple
studies and theories that link a direct relationship between the amounts of support
a community provides and the amount of criminal street gang activity. This article
is well thought out and relies on a strong foundation of research to support its
thesis and ideas regarding criminal street gang intervention.
Greenwood, P. (2008). Prevention and Intervention Programs for Juvenile Offenders. The
Future of Children, 18(2), 185-210.
Greenwood examines various intervention strategies and program models that
promote the rehabilitation of juveniles. One of his main arguments within the text
is that by preventing delinquency among juveniles society cannot only guide
young lives but also prevent the creation of additional adult criminals. The author
explains that intervention programs can save up to seven to ten dollars for every
dollar invested. Greenwood discusses that school based programs and community
based programs are often slow but overtime can be extremely effective to combat
problems such as youth participation in criminal street gangs.
The author cites numerous programs and evidence-based studies that support the
concept of intervention programs. Greenwood’s overall goal is to push for an
increase in the amount of programs being utilized. He discusses that although it
will be a challenge it will ultimately lead to a significant change in the juvenile
justice system. This article provides a thorough and collected argument in regards
to the changes necessary to improve intervention among delinquent youth.
Holmes, S. (n.d.). Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies Migrant Farmworkers In The United States
(pp. 1-264). California Series in Public Anthropology. (264 pages)
The ethnography Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies is a powerful and emotional look
into the challenging lifestyle of Mexican migrants. The author, Seth Holmes is an
American citizen that received his Ph.D. in Medical Anthropology from the
University of California, Berkeley and San Francisco. He conducted both his
internship and residency in internal medicine at University of Pennsylvania.
Holmes utilizes more than five years of intensive research to produce a broader
perspective on social hierarchies and health inequalities, specifically in relation to
migrant Mexican laborers working within the United States. Holmes relies on his
education and experience in social science and anthropology to conduct a large
amount of fieldwork research to develop a stronger understanding of migrant farm
workers.
While researching for Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies, Holmes surrounds himself
with the social struggles of Mexican migratory workers by performing a
significant amount of participation-observation research. Holmes conducts
fieldwork by traveling with groups of migrant workers back and forth from
southern Mexico all the way up through the western coast of the United States. By
establishing relationships and forging bonds, Holmes is able to create a rare look
at what it is like to be a traveling migratory laborer coming to and from the United
States. To establish these relationships and develop a thorough understanding of
the suffering, he conducted interviews, harvested agriculture, assisted migratory
workers with their health problems, lived in labor camps, attended funerals, and
witnessed a significant amount of violence.
The ethnography starts by examining the journey from the San Miguel Mountains
of Oaxaca, Mexico. The first method of transportation is often by bus, often days
before reaching the desired destination. The bus stops very infrequently, usually
just for military and police checkpoints. Holmes describes these conditions as
exhausting, cramped, and unexpected. For approximately eighteen months he
documented his research through the research method of participant observation.
During this time Holmes attempted to experience every aspect of migratory labor
in the United States.
Arriving at destinations, Holmes would immediately participate in fieldwork
processes often resulting in severe knee and back pain. Within the literature
Holmes notes that the injuries and strain placed upon the Triqui people can be
labeled as a social norm that is produced within the migrant worker culture. These
insights and references towards culture would not be possible without such a
personal and emotional research process. The reader is provided with an intense
depiction through first-hand interviews and narrative presentation. The result was
a powerful and unique ethnographic journey that shed light on a significantly
oppressed population.
The explorations into the migrant worker culture significantly altered my
perspective on the challenges and systems that surround farm work. Additionally,
the research and conclusions collected by Holmes changed my early opinion of
social sciences and social theory. The research process although well executed
lacks objectivity due to the intimate relationships and long duration of time spent
with the observed group. The book and its research cater well to readers intent on
gaining emotional insight on race relations and migrant farm worker populations.
The literature was thought provokingly informative as well as thoroughly
captivating.
Lipsey, M. (1999). Can Intervention Rehabilitate Serious Delinquents? Annals of the
American Academy of Political and Social Science, 564, 142-166.
Mark Lipsey discusses the relationship between the various methods of
intervening with delinquent and deviant juveniles. In the article he discussed the
balance between the overall rehabilitation of juveniles versus the punishment of
juveniles. Lipsey explains that the more commonly utilized method of juvenile
justice is rehabilitation. In the text he examines whether or not such rehabilitation
programs will treat serious offenders among the juvenile population. The author
argues that juveniles by definition are far more likely to make errors in judgment
when compared to adults. This is his main argument for the necessity of a
rehabilitative style among the juvenile justice system.
Lipsey conveys that through his research and studies he has developed an
understanding that rehabilitative strategies produce a reduction in recidivism of
serious offenders among the juvenile population. He confirms this through
numerous forms of scientific data and research. In the text Lipsey recognizes that
the effectiveness of the programs does hinder on the overall structure of the
program itself. The text is well organized and the ideas are executed scientifically
by the author.
Norton, W. (2003). 'After-the-Fact Causality': A Different Direction for Cultural
Geography. 35(4), 418-426. (10 pages)
In this article William Norton examines the concept of culture and its relationship
with geography. Norton explains that much of sociologist Emile Durkheim’s
work has contributed to a drastic change in scientific environmentalism. He
conveys the idea that your environment and your geographic location have a
significant impact on the way that you learn. This concept is called operant
conditioning.
Norton compares his theories and ideas with nineteenth-century Mormon
settlements. Norton states that Mormon cultural geography influenced their
methods of learning and the development of their cultures. He examines Mormon
culture and how they emphasized the well being of the group before that of the
individual. Norton argues that the Mormon way of life was directly influenced by
their cultural geography and environmentalism.
This text provides the reader with an in depth look at the different perspectives
provided by William Norton. His ideas are well executed and have a solid
foundation. The article is thorough and well supported by the ideals of the
Mormon people.
Ogden, David, and Randall A. Rose. "Using Gidden's Structuration Theory To Examine
The Waning Participation Of African Americans In Baseball." Journal Of Black
Studies 35.4 (2005): 225-43. JSTOR. Web. (19 pages)
This article closely examines baseballs decline as a sport among the African
American culture. The authors directly apply British sociologist Anthony
Gidden’s structuration theory to the transition of baseball as it relates to the
African American community. According to studies cited within the text, baseball
does not rank high as a desired sport by African Americans.
The authors move to argue that access to facilities, resources, mass media
coverage, as well as other factors have a strong influence on the ranking. Giddens
structuration theory illustrates that certain enabling and constraining factors will
often turn African American youth towards basketball rather than baseball. This
steady decline can be traced through research conducted within major league
baseball, “That figure dropped to slightly more than 10% for the 2003 opening
day rosters, continuing a downward spiral since 1975, when 27% of major league
players were African American (Fish 2003).
The statistics and theories discussed throughout this article have provided me with
a fresh and open view into new categories relating to modern day sports. Reading
this article has provide me with a new insight into the relationship between social
theory and sports.
Pantoja, Jose. "The Effects of Human Activities on the Conservation of Endangered Sea
Turtles in Mexico: A GIS and Ethnographic Analysis." (n.d.): Print.
(35 pages)
This text represents research performed by Jose Pantoja to investigate the effects
of human activity on an endangered sea turtle called Olive Ridley. The author
reviews human activity such as the building of infrastructure directly beneficial to
the tourist industry as well as all recreational activities that are related to the local
beaches.
Pantoja examines other socioeconomic behaviors that are drastically reducing the
ability for the Olive Ridley and other species to make a come-back. These other
behaviors include but are not limited to poaching of turtles, collection of sea turtle
eggs, accidental capture, coastal development, and contamination of water.
The theories developed by Pantoja rely on the fascinating foundation of
information that he has collected while on a research trip to Nuevo Vallarta.
Pantoja’s conclusions and theories are informative and exceptionally thorough.
Rolandsen, O. (2005). Guerrilla Government: Political changes in the southern Sudan
during the 1990s. Nordiska Afrikainstitutet, 13-33. (21 pages)
The text relates and analyzes many political events that occurred in Southern
Sudan and examines various perspectives through the implementation social
science. During this time period in Southern Sudan, civil war and many other
national catastrophes were at hand. The Sudan People’s Liberation
Movement/Army (SPLMA/A) pushed for the 1994 National Convention, which
would later be considered one of the SPLMA’s greatest accomplishments.
During the 1994 National Convention, a reformed “New Sudan” was produced
and restructuring began. Rolandsen utilizes social science to develop an
understanding of what happened in these regions as well as why it happened. The
author examines many of the internal and external factors that created such
political unrest and violence throughout the history of Sudan. Rolandsen
establishes that much of the tension was and is created by an unorganized and
undisciplined state-structure. The continuous political unrest and multiple civil
wars are all outlined by the author as a major contributor to the problems
experienced around the region of Sudan.
The author provides an active and collected perspective regarding the turmoil in
the region by tying many historical events together. I found the text to be
informative as well as dark. The process and overall tension experienced by the
people is exhausting even to just contemplate let alone experience.
Salerno, R. (2004). Beyond the Enlightenment: Lives and thoughts of social theorists (p.
1-256). Westport, Connecticut: Praeger. (256 pages)
Roger Salerno’s book Beyond the Enlightenment: Lives and thoughts of social
theorists, provides an introduction to overall broad social and philosophical
theory. Within the text he examines and summarizes numerous significant social
theorists and their theories. He outlines important ideas and concepts that have
played and continue to play a substantial role in the development of social science
and its surrounding foundations. Salerno utilizes a factual and critical approach
when evaluating theorists and theories. Beyond the Enlightenment: Lives and
thoughts of social theorists is unique due to its process of analyzing and
compressing some of the most complex theorists into short organized sections.
Salerno’s ideas and interpretations provide an excellent source of broad
information to provoke discussion as well as debate. In many ways, Salerno
introduces these key social theorists and their theories from a bibliographical
perspective.
Salerno’s book contains summaries of approximately twenty-eight substantial
social theorists and theories. One of the discussed theorists is David Emile
Durkheim. Durkheim was born on April 15, 1858 in Epinal, France. Durkheim
was fascinated with science and its relationship with human behavior which
ultimately led him to pursue and develop social science. Once he completed his
higher education he began to contain his ideas regarding society and its social
bond based on morality. Durkheim’s theories and beliefs supported the idea that
social problems are a direct result of moral differences. In Salerno’s reflection he
discusses a theory popularized by Durkheim called anomie. The theory of anomie
describes how a society lacks moral guidance on an individual level causing a
lack of connection to a community or society. It explains how an individual fails
to connect on a personal level or to overall social standards often times at the fault
of society itself.
Salerno provides an in depth examination of Durkheim as a theorist and
contributor to social science as well as the impact of his ideals on society.
Additionally, Salerno examines a more contemporary sociologist named Anthony
Giddens. Giddens was born on January 18, 1938 in Edmonton, North London. He
was inspired to pursue social science by many of his teachers. Giddens is
recognized for his evaluation of society from a more modern perspective as well
as his development of the structuration theory. The theory of structuration is
based on the concept that social life is a balance of human activity and social
structure. The result is a relationship between set societal standards such as
traditions, norms, moral codes, and habits. The theory suggests that over time
these societal standards will transform and alter when individuals override them,
resulting in a change in society.
Durkheim and Giddens are just two examples of theorists that Salerno explores
and evaluates in his book. Beyond the Enlightenment: Lives and thoughts of social
theorists was a profound and efficient was to develop a stronger understanding of
social theory and some of its most significant theorists. The biographical
perspectives as well as the social science foundation provided by Salerno leaves
the reader with a wider and more educated perspective of common social theories
and their many contributors.
Spergel, Irving (1990). Youth Gangs: Continuity and Change. Crime and Justice, 12,
171-275. (106 pages)
Youth Gangs: Continuity and Change explores the concepts and ideas behind the
various forms of gang intervention. Spergel examines how criminal street gangs
are influenced by outside factors such as poverty and other forms of social
change. The author conveys modern policies such as local community
mobilization, youth outreach, social opportunities, and gang suppression. Spergel
emphasizes that in order to successfully combat criminal street gangs you must
develop local community organization and neighborhood mobilization. Law
enforcement and the justice system have only limited effectiveness when not
supported by the community.
Spergel references the ideals of youth work programs and their popularity among
youth gang members. The programs can be utilized to control gang-fighting,
treatment on an individual level, provide access to opportunities, and the
prevention of further delinquency. Some of the desired outcomes consist of but
are not limited to attitude change, decrease in violence, and a generalized change
of personality. This article is thought provoking and well organized. It provides a
well-balanced understanding of the many aspects of gang intervention among
juveniles.
Tagg, J. (2003). The Learning Paradigm College. Bolton, Massachusetts: Anker
Publishing Company, 41-61. (20 pages)
Chapters 5 and 6 of Tagg’s book focus on students struggle to adapt to the
American higher education system. In Chapter 5, Tagg identifies that the majority
of students entering American colleges and universities are underprepared and not
qualified to make the transition to higher education. In Chapter 6, Tagg
concentrates on students’ attitudes and beliefs and their relation to the students
overall performance in the academic atmosphere.
Tagg doesn’t hesitate to illustrate that the majority of today’s students are
struggling to absorb and accomplish the education that is being provided to them.
He emphasizes that in part the origin of this problem is the K-12 educational
system. Tagg furthers investigates the shortcomings of students by taking a look
into their performance and long-term educational goals. He expands on the idea
that students own “self-theories” about their learning goals and qualifications play
a substantial role in their actual academic success.
Tagg cites multiple studies and surveys that are all leading to the same
conclusion, the educational system has deficiencies and so do its students. A
startling statistic is provided in the text, “More than one quarter of the freshmen at
4-year colleges and nearly half of those at 2-year colleges do not even make it to
their sophomore year” (Education Trust, 2000, p. 6). The ideas and data discussed
in these chapters are thought-provoking and engaging. It has enlightened me to
think about my own self-theory.
Wallerstein, I. (2003). Anthropology, Sociology, and Other Dubious Disciplines’ Current
Anthropology, 44(4), 453-460. (8 pages)
In this publication, Wallerstein expresses his ideas and concerns with the status of
modern social science as well as the trials created by its numerous disciplines.
Wallerstein organizes his experiences and exposures to deliver a message to the
community of social science, a message of concern. It is throughout the article
that the author dives into the framework of social science and attempts to
recognize its most hindering issues. Wallerstein addresses such ideas as
favoritism created amongst disciplines, idiographic and nomothetic perspectives,
and the overall reconstruction of social science.
Wallerstein describes disciplines as cultures that “favor certain styles of
scholarship over others” (Wallerstein 453). This described favoritism and
categorization is viewed as a definite obstacle. The author conveys an idea he
calls “historical social sciences”, wherein all of the current social science
disciplines are grouped as one. This is a drive to streamline and modernize social
science into a more dynamic source of worldly information.
Wallerstein references a report of an international commission called the
Gulbenkian Commission on the Restructuring of the Social Sciences (1996). He
emphasizes that throughout the years social scientists have and continue to
overlook the boundaries and become more fluid. Wallerstein’s ideas for
reconstruction seem well researched, yet they make me ponder how cumbersome
an operation can be when you’re planning to modify something as large as a
branch of science.
Wattenberg, W., & Balistrieri, J. (1950). Gang Membership and Juvenile Misconduct.
American Sociological Review, 15(6), 744-752. (10 pages)
Wattenberg and Balistrieri provide a well-balanced and intuitive examination of
juvenile delinquency and criminal street gang membership. The authors explain
how juveniles adjust in social settings that often involve larger groups. This
adjustment has been scientifically explained numerous times and numerous ways
by various social scientists, however the authors convey that this adjustment can
often lead to delinquency. Wattenberg and Balistrieri cite research and studies
such as an examination of Mexican-American street gangs in Los Angeles. They
focus on how exactly the formation occurs what the triggering factors for youth
involvement. An example of some of the founded triggering factors was a lack of
discipline in the home or community setting.
Another distinguishing factor that was observed in the cited studies was the
majority of juveniles originating from socio-economically low neighborhoods and
communities. The text is supported by a substantial amount of research that is
listed within the article. The authors offer a well-connected explanation for
juvenile delinquency and the drive to participate within a criminal street gang.
Yosso, T. (2005). Whose culture has capital? A critical race theory discussion of
community cultural wealth. Race Ethnicity and Education, 69-91. (23 pages)
This article examines both the historical and modern influence of racism on the
United States as a social problem. Yosso examines how Unites States institutions
have been and continue to be forged around race and racism. Yosso examines
how minority groups are affected by the relationship between social inequality
and the law. The author expands on the concept of critical race theory and directly
connects it to social inequality in various settings.
Yosso emphasizes how culture is represented in numerous ways such as language,
immigration status, gender, phenotype, sexuality, region, race, and ethnicity. The
author emphasizes ideas from sociologist Pierre Bourdieu such as his views of
cultural capitalism and how it represents an accumulation of cultural knowledge.
According to the text cultural capital is not inherited but instead is accumulated
based on knowledge, skills, and abilities.
The ideas and theories discussed within the article are thought provoking and well
planned. The concepts expressed by the author as well as contributing sources
provide a scientific explanation to the reader. It is clear that our society and
culture have been drastically shaped around social problems such as social
inequality.
Bloch, H. (1963). The Juvenile Gang: A Cultural Reflex. The Annals of the American
Academy of Political and Social Science, 347, 20-29. (10 pages).
Within the text, Bloch examines various degrees of delinquency and its
relationship with social class differences among juveniles. The author partners
class criteria as well characteristics of youthful deviance to establish social
limitations that promote restrictive backgrounds. The foundation comes from
research performed during The Great Depression, where early social research
dictated the presence of complex social classes within America. Bloch ties similar
concepts of social classes and social differences to elements present in
delinquents and criminals. He argues that juveniles do not become offenders as a
result of social isolation or a lack of exposure to normative patterns. The author
attributes the disruption to economic deprivation, flawed families, and tension
between age generations.
Bloch articulates that youthful behavior and deviance although connected in
numerous ways throughout history, is particular. He explains that generalizing
structures of youthful deviance would be a mistake. The author emphasizes the
importance of shifting away from traditional contexts in order to comprehend the
various substantial factors that promote juvenile delinquency.
Hagedorn, J. (1991). Gangs, Neighborhoods, and Public Policy. Special Issue on the
Underclass in the United States, 38(4), 529-542. (14 pages).
Hagedorn discusses various aspects of juvenile gang participation, including
public policy and effective control techniques. He proposes the identifying
concept of “underclass” as a fundamental component, describing contemporary
gangs as the urban minority. Hagedorn examines research performed in three
different studies of Milwaukee criminal street gangs. He articulates that
contemporary gangs are significantly more organized and directed towards
objectives. The author evaluates aspects of economic, demographic, and
institutional change with neighborhood and community response to gangs.
Within the text Hagedorn examines various sources of community hostility
towards gang members. Community members and law enforcement view most
contemporary gang structures as dysfunctional and delinquent. A driving force
behind requested gang suppression has always been contributed directly to an
increased amount of violence. Additionally, Hagedorn evaluates plausible policies
and procedure implemented at a local community level to combat gang
involvement and progression. The author emphasizes the important role that
funding plays in the attack of criminal street gangs. He promotes the process of
local government requesting additional funding from the federal level. This
additional funding can be utilized to combat less critical but still necessary issues.
Horowitz, R. (1987). Community Tolerance of Gang Violence. Social Problems, 34(5),
437-450. (14 pages).
The author examines and evaluates various strategies in place to target and punish
social deviancy. She explains that delinquency is more likely a direct result of
tolerance as opposed to a failure to react. Horowitz analyzes how different
community groups respond to violent behavior produced by criminal street gangs.
She states that through her research she has developed a clear connection between
awareness levels and tolerance levels towards violent behavior. In the text, she
summarizes that tolerance may be created directly by community members
avoiding contact with gangs whose activity is considered problematic.
Additionally, she observes that some gangs align themselves with cultural
standards to a certain extent. This produces tolerance and a certain level of
cooperation until the point that the gang violence becomes overwhelming for the
majority of community members. This connection is strong and significantly
complicated because gang members are not strangers, they are relatives and
friends of the community. Horowitz emphasizes that a cultural link is present
between the street world and conventional world.
Klein, M. (1965). Juvenile Gangs, Police, and Detached Workers Controversies about
Intervention. University of Chicago Press. 39(2). 183-190. (8 pages).
Within the text, Klein examines various elements of the individual detached
worker that works along side and often within urban street gangs. The relationship
created is significantly unique with direct objectives aimed at building trust and
support. The detached worker exists based solely around the idea that the average
gang member is less receptive to ordinary intervention program methods. For
these reasons the detached worker approach to intervention and prevention
utilizes a less systematic and invasive approach. The ultimate goal is to attach to
the gang and its participants and provide mentoring and guidance.
The author neutrally evaluates the relationship between law enforcement and
detached workers. Often conflict arises from determining who is responsible for
what tasks, which results in program interruptions. He states that the mere fact
that a detached worker is assigned to a gang shows that the gang is considered
problematic and significant. The ultimate result from effective planning is a
strong relationship between police, the community, and detached workers. This
establishes positions and creates a powerful resource in combating juvenile gang
participation.
Maxson, C., Whitlock, M., & Klein, M. (1998). Vulnerability to Street Gang
Membership: Implications for Practice. Social Service Review, 72(1), 70-91. (22
pages).
The authors evaluate and analyze methods and services that assist high-risk youth
avoid criminal street gang activity. The examination explores early age youth due
to the more consistent and effective results yielded through intervention and
prevention. Baseline approaches consist of intervention at the individual, family,
educational, peer, and community level. The research conducted consisted of
examining patterns of geographic distribution partnered with interviews with
informants with in gang intervention programs. A unique and substantial
component of the research was efforts made to study youth that were not
participating in criminal street gangs, but were still considered at-risk.
It was determined that different crime patterns and psychological dimensions
were noted between gang and non-gang youth. Additionally, at-risk youth
displayed that they were more likely to overcome conflict by talking or walking
away, rather than utilizing threats or violence. An examination of exposure to
violence within the community was also performed. The results yielded that
although both groups lived in the same neighborhood, gang participants reported
higher levels of exposure.
McCarthy, J., & Zald, M. (1977). Resource Mobilization and Social Movements: A
Partial Theory. American Journal of Sociology, 82(6), 1212-1241. (30 pages)
Throughout history societies and communities around the world change and redevelop to forge new aspects of culture and social mobilization. This social
mobilization relies directly on the structure and function of society as well as the
fueling of change through social theories and social movement theories. Social
movement theories are outlined as a set of beliefs and opinions in a population,
that represent priorities for changing elements of social structure and/or reward
distribution within a society (McCarthy & Zald, 1217). Social theories such as the
conflict theory, anarchism, and socialism illustrate and explain the foundation of
such movements as the Occupy movement.
Conflict theory helps provide an understanding of the relationship between those
with and without resources and how it creates a power imbalance, thus resulting
in conflict. This conflict can directly support the organization of those willing to
participate in social mobilization. This article provides a broad and informative
perspective of social movements and the moving parts that surround them.
Rigoberta, R. (1984). I, Rigoberta Menchú: An Indian woman in Guatemala (pp. 1-295)
(E. Burgos-Debray, Ed.). London: Verso Publications. (295 pages)
I, Rigoberta Menchu, is the story of a twenty-three year old Quiche Indian woman
in Guatemala. The literature was produced through an extensive interview process
of Menchu’s journey, performed by Venezuelan anthropologist Elisabeth BurgosDebray. Menchu provides an in depth examination of disparities and inequalities
within her population, community, and culture. The Quiche population descended
from the Mayans and is one of twenty-two unique and ancient groups. Menchu
struggles with a geographical split by working in the low country of Guatemala
with her family for the majority of each year. Living conditions are surrounded by
exposure to harmful pesticides and forever present starvation and malnutrition.
Menchu and her family spend approximately four months of each year in the
wooded highlands called Altiplano. The literature captures her account of
emotional ceremonies and traditions that help her people struggle with the
difficult challenges they face in life. Menchu’s narrative brings voice to an
oppressed and dominated people that are horrifically exploited by the Spanishspeaking group called Ladinos. It becomes astonishingly apparent that a divide is
created between the two major population groups, Indians and Ladinos. Menchu
challenges cultural differences between the groups, expressing that separation will
establish positive change. Over time, her perspective significantly shifts towards a
view of cultural and social unification as a prospective solution.
The barriers between the two groups help Menchu understand that the a divide is
present between the oppressed and the elite. She learned and developed the
Spanish language into a weapon to combat oppression, linguistic isolation, and
cultural discrimination. The desire to seek and develop societal change is only the
first major step within Menchu’s challenges. Violence erupts between the
indigenous population and the Guatemalan Army. Menchu’s mother, father, and
brother are slaughtered during the conflicts. These are defining moments for
Menchu, she resorts to protesting the government’s decision to implement warfare
on its own people. She views these attacks not only as physical violence, but as an
attack on her peoples values, culture, and tradition.
The thoughts and ideals within the text are powerful and emotional passages that
articulate elements of domination and exclusion. Menchu’s story is an archive and
piece of historical literature that represents an essential record. The text also
discusses the process and mechanics of acculturation. The author conveys that
Menchu is successful in reference to acculturation, due to the fact that she is able
to retain her own culture through social resistance. The author explains that she is
merely an instrument, a listener for Rigoberta. The true presence of the weapon is
made by the accounts of Rigoberta’s journey and struggle. How Menchu uses her
mind and connection to her people is the real stand made against domination.
This account is informative and a direct line of first-hand information into some
of the horrific events that the indigenous population group experience throughout
the world and throughout history. I found the direct line of information provided
by Menchu to be revealing and informative. The accounts and story of Menchu is
a valuable piece of information that should be shared across educational
establishments throughout the world.
Vasconcelos, J., & Jaen, D. (1997). The Cosmic Race: A Bilingual Edition (Johns
Hopkins paperbacks ed., pp. 1-160). Baltimore, Md.: Johns Hopkins University
Press. (160 pages)
Jose Vasconcelos’s book, La Raza Cosmica established and outlined a vision for
the development and proposed future of all races. This vision produced by
Vasconcelos’s promoted a movement and thought process he referred to as “the
cosmic race”. Vasconcelos was born in Oaxaca on February 28, 1882. He
eventually became bilingual speaking both Spanish and English. English
established Vasconcelos’s foundation into the English-speaking world adding
significant and substantial contributions to his style of work. This contribution
included a stronger and broader understanding of western societies and cultural
norms.
Additionally, Vasconcelos held a position as the Secretariat of Public Education,
where he established a significant political role within Mexican government and
the Mexican Revolution. Within La Raza Cosmica, Vasconcelos incorporates
many revolutionary ideas that greatly impacted both the people of his life and
those beyond his lifetime. His ideas were established through the experiences and
education that developed him and his thought process. This understanding is
substantial for many reasons but particularly because throughout his message
Vasconcelos emphasizes the impact of education on educational philosophy and
emancipation.
This empowerment partnered with the foundation of Vasconcelos’s ideals that
Mexicans were destined to be a superior race. Vasconcelos articulates that in the
final stages of humanity a new civilization will be created. He focused on the
conceptual approach that Mexicans would evolve into a unified race with a
prospective successful future. He refers to this unity and creation of a new
population body as the creation of the “fifth race”. Vasconcelos’s manuscripts and
ideas were widely consistent with the views set forth by the Mexican Revolution.
It is also essential to examine the interpretive meaning of “La Raza”.
Vasconcelos consistently ties together ideas of racial purity and hybridity to
promote a broader use such as “the people” or “the community”. He estimates that
this process of perfection will be the direct result of interbreeding between Latin
American population groups. This process, as Vasconcelos predicts will aid with
the elimination of European weakness. This weakness that he summarizes is
connected to the ideals and processes of a population to reliant on materialism and
capitalism. In this case that population is the combination of indigenous groups
and non-indigenous bloodlines.
The views of Vasconcelos were paralleled with ideals and theories close the
Marxism. His visions of an elite race suggested that Mexicans would eventually
hold the title of world leader. Vasconcelos’ thoughts published within his
literature were widely accepted within the government of Mexico due to its
emphasized national pride. He excelled and rallied through his visionary
literature, yet declared the political influence of the United States as damaging.
The text and process of delivery is complex and in no way contemporary. The
material is direct with its objective and at the same time overwhelmingly racist.
The literature is unique and presents a fresh perspective on some of the various
forms of writing that can be found around the globe. Although a new perspective,
I would not recommend this material for any purpose other than cultural
exposure.
Lewis, O. (1961). The Children of Sánchez, Autobiography of a Mexican Family (pp. 1560). New York: Random House. (560 pages)
Oscar Lewis’ book, The Children of Sanchez is a powerful and emotional
examination of a unique Mexican family living in Tepito. Lewis was born in New
York City in 1914. He received a Ph.D. in anthropology from Columbia
University. Over the course of a few years, Lewis captures the emotion, nature,
and existence of the Sanchez family. Lewis develops an original and refreshing
approach different from his other work. He focuses on a single family and all of
its members, providing an intimate and concentrated look at each family member.
In this volume I offer the reader a deeper look into the lives of one of these
families by the use of a new technique whereby each member of the family tells
his own life story in his own words. (Lewis 23). The author collects powerful
statements and details through tape-recorded interviews. This documentation
process creates a deep and intimate piece of literature that provides a inside view
of life
The author vividly captures the environment and circumstances of what family
life is like in a one-room home. The literature recounts sympathy and all of the
challenges faced by a unique Latin family. The father, Jesus Sanchez engages his
responsibility to provide for his unique and drifting family, yet through systematic
priority. Lewis interprets and expands on this conceptual framework through the
message of Manuel. As the patriarch, Jesus pressured his children to succeed and
grow. My father beat us, not out of cruelty, but for deeper reasons, because of his
love for Elena. Deep down he loved us too, but he wanted us to amount to
something and when he saw that we didn’t do the right thing he felt cheated,
disappointed (Lewis 29).
Lewis partners the emotions and poverty of the Sanchez family to produce a
compelling and detailed ethnography. The text is powerful yet not overly
complex, providing a direct message to the reader. The author truly dedicates his
research and journey to establishing and capturing the life of the Sanchez family.
The unique structure and execution of Lewis’ book outlines opportunities for each
individual character to express his or her perspective and challenges. Each figure
being introduced and revealed with first hand experiences creates a independent
and more transparent documentation of events. Due to this unique organization of
material, the reader is connected to the journey and story of each character.
Lewis details unbearable elements of lower class Mexican social life. Each
character experiences the elements from a vastly different position, thus creating a
broad range of reactions. When proposing and highlighting the correlation to
aspects of social science and human behavior, the possibilities and avenues
quickly become endless. The literature is by nature filled with hardship, however
it gives a vivid voice to each character. Remaining objective allows the reader to
perceive each section and element as an account of human development. At first
the material and the manner in which it is presented is complex and difficult to
digest. After time, it quickly becomes a rewarding and unique style of writing.