Sociological Imagination

C. Wright Mills stated that Sociological imagination allows us to grasp our own

history and biography and the relations between the two within society. When I read his

paper on sociological imagination, I tried to relate his definition to my life and draw my

own definition or explanation of what I think would be a good definition. I considered

my place in history and what would be my own biography. Where would I fit in society

and what impact would I have?

Sociological imagination is a thought process. We as individuals can change the

course of our direction in society. You begin your life as a student and strive to be a

member of the work force that moves this country. As your life progresses, you change

from one class to another. I have gone from student to a military man back to both

student and worker. My biography has had its ups and downs over the last 40 years.

Sociological imagination allows me to change my course where I fit in society.

If you were to write my biography today it would say, loving husband and father,

served proudly in the armed forces, and played hard. Where is my place in history and

what is my contribution? I answered that last question with just plain facts. I keep this

country safe from people who would harm us and take away what we as Americans stand

for, freedom. I feel that I will leave my mark in history and society will see the fruits of

my hard work. In this country we have had a series of emotional stress and conflict in

our community. Our land has been ravished by hurricanes and our sons and daughters

are dieing every day fighting for democracy.

In an article in Newsweek, Evan Thomas and Arian Campo-Flores discussed a

fierce cultural storm of racial tension concerning the flooding of the lower Ninth in New

Orleans. This area is located under sea level and is 98% black, very poor, and crime

ridden.