Internet Exercises

Rock the Vote is among a growing list of organizations trying to involve youths in the political and voting process. Review the material in Box 13-1 in your text, and then explore the Rock the Vote website to learn more. On the site, visitors can read information, view pictures, and participate in online polls, as well as discover how to register to vote.

When and why did Rock and Vote form?
Choose one of the "Issues" detailed on the site. What recent events are occurring in terms of this issue? How do various politicians stand on this issue? What statistics does the site provide? Why is this issue important?
What are musicians, actors, and politicians doing about the issue that you chose?
Take some of the "Interactive Polls." How do your opinions compare to others?
Visit the "Activist Gallery" and view the images. What messages does the art communicate? What symbols are used?
What do you think can be done to increase the involvement of young voters in the political process?

Max Weber's writings have been crucial in expanding sociologists' understanding of the workings of political institutions, government, and bureaucracies. In particular, his work on types of authority helps to frame the relationship of those in power to the people they lead. First, direct your web browser to an Internet search engine such as Lycos® or Alta Vista. Second, think of a leader from politics, religion, or history that you always wanted to learn more about. If you need an idea, just flip through your textbook and you will find pictures and names of many such leaders. Search for that person's name and visit links dedicated to her or his life.

Which person did you choose? Why did you select her or him?
When did this person live? What group or nation did this person lead? What role has this person played in history?
What type of authority did he or she have over followers? Was it traditional, legal-rational, or charismatic authority, or some combination? What reasons/examples can you give to support your choice?
Did the person you studied ever use force to exert or maintain power over others? Did the person ever use influence? How so?
What is your opinion of this leader in light of all you have learned?

Sociology emerged, in part, as a way to grasp the dynamic changes in society after the Industrial Revolution. Today, people are living through another social revolution due to the computer, a technology that is changing education, relationships, government, and the economy. One area of alteration involves "where" and "how" people work. To learn more about how the computer has impacted work, visit the About® "Telecommuting" site, guided by Catherine A. Roseberry.

Define and describe some of the evolving styles of work, such as "telecommuting," "jobsharing," and "flex time." What do these terms mean? What are the pros and cons (see "Flex Options-Advantages &. Disadvantages" on the site) of these newer styles?
What is "Telecommuting Volunteer Work"?
What current government and business news/events are having an impact on telecommuting? Has recent legislation or policies encouraged telecommuting in your opinion? If so, how? If not, why?
What skills will be needed by workers in the new economy?
Considering what you have learned on the site and in your book, would you like to be a telecommuter? Why or why not?

2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education
Any use is subject to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
McGraw-Hill Higher Education is one of the many fine businesses of The McGraw-Hill Companies.