ABSTRACT
Simulations games have long been a feature of teaching. Simple games offer the instructor opportunities to foster communication with students in both large and small classes. A simulation game has successfully taught about structured inequality that required few resources, accommodated a large class, and proved well-liked by students. Monopoly is considered the leading proprietary game in the Western Hemisphere. The objective of the traditional game is based on one primary rule, to “become the wealthiest player through buying, renting, and selling property.” Monopoly represents a simulation of a significant feature of a capitalistic political economy and when played can help highlight the experiences of living in the Western world. Turns are taken in descending order, beginning with the upper socioeconomic status (SES) family. Sociological research shows the country to be stratified along a number of dimensions including class. Reflection is accomplished using the game as a shared and common experience and as a gateway to larger social issues.
