Sociology Assignment - Societal Evolution
Tiffany McCallum
Professor Carol Savchak
Sociology 210 E01
January 31, 2010
SOCIETAL EVOLUTION
Whether it is Karl Max, Max Weber, Gerhard Lenski, or Emile Durkheim, sociological theories on societal evolution vary. Each theory offers its own valid point, but may not compliment the other.
Durkheim’s theory, in summary, states that our social evolution is centered on our division of labor. He believes that we will move from being self-sufficient to highly integrated and inter-dependent on one another.
Weber’s theory, in summary, states that rational-legal authority is becoming the dominant system through capitalism because of its technical superiority over any other form of organization. (Rollag, Keith; Babson College.)
Marx’s theory says that capitalism while eventually self-destruct by causing tension within itself. He also stated that it would be replaced by socialism, or a “pure communism.” We would be within a type of society that has no states, no social class, where everyone is of “equal” standing.
Lenski, who happens to be one of the more modern of the four sociologists, believes that population growth and density will be the main cause for societal evolution. Population growth can lead to cultural diversity, which will change a society by far.
Professor Carol Savchak
Sociology 210 E01
January 31, 2010
SOCIETAL EVOLUTION
Whether it is Karl Max, Max Weber, Gerhard Lenski, or Emile Durkheim, sociological theories on societal evolution vary. Each theory offers its own valid point, but may not compliment the other.
Durkheim’s theory, in summary, states that our social evolution is centered on our division of labor. He believes that we will move from being self-sufficient to highly integrated and inter-dependent on one another.
Weber’s theory, in summary, states that rational-legal authority is becoming the dominant system through capitalism because of its technical superiority over any other form of organization. (Rollag, Keith; Babson College.)
Marx’s theory says that capitalism while eventually self-destruct by causing tension within itself. He also stated that it would be replaced by socialism, or a “pure communism.” We would be within a type of society that has no states, no social class, where everyone is of “equal” standing.
Lenski, who happens to be one of the more modern of the four sociologists, believes that population growth and density will be the main cause for societal evolution. Population growth can lead to cultural diversity, which will change a society by far.