Sociology

Sociology Study Guide

Auguste Comte: A French philosopher by the name of Auguste Comte (1798-1857) is considered the founder of sociology. He coined the term “sociology” and proposed two initial areas of study in which the methods of science should be applied to studying society: • Social statistics: The study of order and stability in society. • Social dynamics: The study of a society’s ability to adapt to changes, both internaland external. Herbert Spencer: Considered one of the greatest English social thinkers of his time, Herbert Spencer (1820-1903) applied Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution to societies in order to explain social order and change and the problems that arise from those two areas. Treating societies as self-regulating organisms, he posited that societies evolved from simple to complex forms, just as Darwin theorized organisms had. Those organisms that adapt easily to their surroundings are more likely to thrive and reproduce – in animals and societies. Spencer, therefore, was an early advocate of Social Darwinism , or survival of the fittest society. He was against governmental interference in social affairs, claiming natural laws would be hindered – adversely affecting everyone. Many of Spencer’s theories have been discounted, but his analogous comparison of societies and organisms is now a staple within the modern functionalist theory. Karl Marx: One of the most influential men of the entire 19 th century, Karl Marx (1818-1883), was influential in many scientific circles, such as philosophy, economics, political science, and history. His brilliant writings inspired modern Socialist and Communist movements. Though Marx did not consider himself a sociologist, his insights are held in such high regard andhave been so valuable, that he is now considered one of the most original and influential social thinkers. Marx insisted that a social scientist must not simply attempt to describe society, but he or she was to change it. In Marx’s view, societies were constantly in a state of conflict and revolution of which the key was class conflict, that is, the struggles between the “haves” and “have nots.” The result of this conflict was a change in society. In this way, the economy has a fundamental influence on society. Marx’s conflict theories are widely accepted by modern sociologists. Emile Durkheim: The French sociologist Emile Durkheim (1858-1917) was a strong influence in the study of social order. He argued that societies are unified by shared values and beliefs, especially religious and ritual customs. Durkheim sought to discover the function of particular elements within a social system and how those functions contributed to the entire system and its maintenance.

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