Q Activity 2: Sociological Perspectives on COVID-19: Using Data to Research a Public Health Problem Learning Objective 1.3: Describe the sociological eye (sociological imagination). Learning Objective 3.3: Understand the ways in which sociologists use data. In this activity, you will examine use a sociological eye to understand a social problem related to COVID-19. You will also explore and understand coronavirus disease (COVID-19) by using maps, charts, and data. Sociologists use the sociological imagination (sociological eye) to examine social forces and interactions. In recent years, the society we have grown accustomed to has been disrupted on a massive scale. As the COVID virus spreads and mutates, major social institutions have changed in terms of their scope and activities. For a significant period, interactions were significantly limited by the practice of social distancing; masks were and continue to be required in many public places. From a sociological perspective, this is one of the more interesting experiences of the 21st century. It is unique in so far as everyone is a potential victim. At the same time, social forces create opportunities for advantage and disadvantage across groups of people. Many of you, especially those that work in healthcare, will have personal experiences with COVID. However, this exercise will reframe your focus by viewing the experiences through your sociological eye. Before starting this activity, take some time to read more about the Sociology of COVID. There are several interesting approaches at: https://sagelecturespark.com/?s=covid. Scroll down and review the headlines. Pick one to read. A good starter is: https://sagelecturespark.com/2020/03/16/3-16-20-sociology-of-covid-19-part-1/ For this activity, I want you to focus on the sociological implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. First, you will explain what it means to view the pandemic through your sociological eye. Next, you will examine demographic data on trends related to COVID-19. Finally, you will use sociological data to determine how your state should be responding to the pandemic. There are five parts of this activity. Please read the questions carefully and be sure to answer all parts. Cite your sources as appropriate.