California State University San Marcos Critical Sociological Theories Questions

Discussion Questions

(1) Let’s apply Mills’ sociological imagination to our own experiences. In what ways do you think personal “troubles” (in Mills’ sense) represent public issues? What are some examples of personal troubles that aren’t typically seen as public issues, but should be (in Mills’ or your view)?

(2) What are some examples of Habermas’ notion of distorted interpersonal communication that you see in your life? Keep in mind that distorted content in media messages is just one facet of the process. Habermas’ seemed more concerned with how the media shaped the quality of our interpersonal communication (what we talk about, what opinions we express, etc.).