Key Figures in Early Sociology

August Comte (1798 – 1857) Background Sociology begins with this French philosopher who was influenced by events following the French Revolution

August Comte Contributions Comte believed that sociologists should be concerned with two basic problems: Order What forces, such as government or economic prosperity, bring order to a society? Change What forces, such as new enlightenment ideas, bring changes to society?

Herbert Spencer (1820 – 1903) Background An English philosopher who wrote in response to the industrial revolution He asked, “How can sociologists explain who will become rich and powerful in this new age and who will be left behind?”

Herbert Spencer Contributions Social Darwinism Spencer applied the work of Charles Darwin to social changes. He believed that through natural competition, the best aspects of society would survive over time. His ideas support the view that government should not interfere in the economic and business activities of a society

Karl Marx (1818 – 1883) Background In Germany, Marx reacted to the social conditions created by the Industrial Revolution. He saw exploitation and misery where others saw order and positive change.

Karl Marx Contributions: Marx believed that the organization of the economy is basic to society, and that political, social and religious beliefs grow out of the economic structure. Society is divided into two groups: Those who control the economy Those who do not Marx advocated a “revolution of the proletariat” to overcome the unfair advantage of the rich

Emile Durkheim (1858 – 1917) Background Durkheim was a French philosopher who was interested in questions of order. What forces keep a society together and what influences pull them apart

Emile Durkheim Contributions Durkheim thought of answers to these questions in terms of FUNCTION  If an element of society fulfills a true function, or Purpose, it must be important in keeping things orderly The best way to analyze society was by examining the functions different institutions serve

Emile Durkheim Particularly interested in the function of religion in society, because he believed that shared beliefs and values hold society together.

Max Weber (1864 – 1920) Background A German sociologist who was interested in the interactions of society and the individual. Weber examined the role individual beliefs and feelings played in society. He argued that society could not be understood by objective measurement.

Max Weber (1864 – 1920) Weber examined the role individual beliefs and feelings played in society. He argued that society could not be understood by objective measurement

Max Weber Contributions Weber believed that sociologists must learn the subjective meanings people attach to actions in order to fully understand behavior. EX: You cannot objectively measure a handshake. Instead, you must understand it subjective meaning.

Max Weber Weber developed the concept of the IDEAL TYPE  a model that can be used to measure reality. A researcher examines many examples of an aspect of a society and identifies what he or she believes to be its essential features.