Reflective Essay

Read this explanation of critical thinking then answer the following questions based on this explanation.

From "Exploring Critical Sociological Thinking"
Author(s): Liz Grauerholz and Sharon Bouma-Holtrop
Source: Teaching Sociology, Vol. 31, No. 4 (Oct., 2003), pp. 485-496

We suggest that sociologists' interests in different types of critical thinking can be broadly encompassed under the term "critical sociological thinking"… In other words, critical sociological thinking is not a broad thinking process applicable to different disciplines. It requires sociological knowledge and skills and the ability to use this knowledge to reflect upon, question, and judge information while also demonstrating a sensitivity to and awareness of social and cultural contexts.

In the above article, the authors explain how others discuss critical sociological thinking as the ability to see the relationship between individuals and society and to be able to question power relations. Some also describe it as the ability to use empirical evidence to provide a social critique.

1. Discuss whether and how writing the research paper taught you to better recognize and use your sociological/criminological perspective, connecting your findings to a social and cultural context.
2. Discuss whether and how writing the research paper helped you to understand the professional ethical principles of sociological or criminological research.

Tips

• Never turn in a paper or even a draft without having it proofed for grammar and spelling. The University of Arkansas has writing resources through the English department to assist with organization, spelling, and grammar.