Chapter 13. Contemporary Social Issues

Inequality and poverty. Differences in income, wealth, health and opportunity exist within and between countries. Causes include history, institutions, education, labour markets and discrimination; responses include education, social protection, fair taxation, and inclusive growth [24][25].

Gender and equality. Societies assign roles and expectations by gender. Gender equality is a human-rights principle and one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals [29][38]. Debates continue about policies on pay, representation, violence prevention and care work.

Race, ethnicity and discrimination. Biological science shows that humans share a single species with little genetic basis for traditional racial categories, yet racial and ethnic categories have real social effects, which sociologists study as products of history and social construction [7][11].

Migration and refugees. People move for work, safety, education and family. Host societies face questions of integration, rights, labour markets and identity; migrants contribute economically and culturally [6].

Globalization. Increasing flows of goods, money, people and ideas bring opportunities and risks, including competition, cultural change and interdependence [6][27].

Urbanization and the environment. Cities offer opportunities but require housing, transport and services; climate change and resource use raise questions of responsibility and justice between and within generations [38].

Technology and society. Digital technology changes work, privacy, politics and relationships. Ethical questions arise around data, surveillance, automation and artificial intelligence [35].

Conflict and peace. Causes of conflict include competition for power and resources, grievances and identity politics. Peacebuilding involves dialogue, justice, development and strong institutions [27].

Sustainable Development Goals. The 2030 Agenda sets out 17 goals, including ending poverty, quality education, gender equality, decent work, reduced inequalities, peace and justice, and climate action [38].

Review: Name two social issues that are strongly affected by digital technology. (Answer: for example, privacy and work.)