Society and Societal Change

Paper Summary:

The paper compares and contrasts the views of Karl Marx, Max Weber and Emile Durkheim on society and the forces that drive change. The paper examines their perspectives on whether society exists and the nature of society, the relationship between society and the individual, how and why societies change, the consequences of modernization and the concepts of specialization and exploitation. The paper demonstrates how the ideas of Weber, Marx and Durkheim give us several opposing views on society and the changes that led to capitalism.

Outline:
Does Society Exist and What is its Nature?
What is the Relationship Between Society and the Individual?
How and Why do Societies Change?
What are the Consequences of Modernization?
What are Their Thoughts on Specialization and Exploitation?

From the Paper:

"All three of our authors felt that society exists, but they have different theories on the reason for its existence. Weber felt that society existed as a result of the collective forces of the individual. He believed that the essence of society was to help individuals further the development of their personal connection to God. The sole purpose for the work of the individuals was to glorify God and recognize his supremacy over man. Weber believed that society exists to serve the individual, who in turn exists to serve God."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Durkheim, E. 2000 (1893). "The division of labour in society." in J. Timmons Roberts Amy Hite, eds. From Modernization to Globalization. Oxford: Basil Blackwell.
• Marx, K. 1963: Selected Writings, eds T. B. Bottomore and M. Rubel, London.
• Weber, Max. (2002/1905)The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. Los Angeles: Roxbury Company.

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