Durkheim, Weber and Marx

Three men, each with their own views of society and each called Fathers of Sociology and Modern Sociology by the people that continue to study their theories as it relates to society. In order to compare and contrast them, each must be given a short synopsis (if that is ever possible) of a key point in their theory and interpretation of society. Durkheim introduces us to the concept of “anomie”. Anomie, as explained by Durkheim’s theory, is the breakdown of the influence of social norms on individuals within a society. Durkheim explained mechanical solidarity, in early society, where there was not a lot of diversity, people lived in small communities (generally farming), had economic similarity and were mostly homogenous. Durkheim argues that in the last five-hundred years, society has shifted to an organic solidarity which is defined as a society based on interdependency. Society has moved to a heterogeneous form in society. People within society now have the ability to leave the original community, to have smaller families, live in larger communities. Durkheim goes on to explain that when people go through the transition from mechanical to organic solidarity, there is uncertainty and a slowness to adapt. He defines this state of anomie as a state of “normlessness”, or insufficient normative regulation. As a structural-functionalist, Durkheim believed that harmony, rather than conflict, defined society, and studied the division of labor, religion and suicide from this perspective.

Karl Marx, on the other hand focuses his theories on the relationship between human lives and a capitalist economy. The theory of historical materialism provides a framework for analyzing human society and the laws of its development. Mar...

... middle of paper ...

...n more money other than for that purpose.

Finally, to summarize this power trio in sociological theory, Karl Marx (1818-1883) sees society in conflict over food, money and material goods. Emile Durkheim (1858-1917) believes society is held together by shared values, which change over time as these societies become larger and more diverse. Max Weber (1864-1920) agrees with Marx that people will rise up to protect their own interests but also agrees with Durkheim that those interests are determined by shared values. He also believed that society, as it becomes larger also becomes more bureaucratic. Each of these men developed their theories from different perspectives. Marx formed his theories from conflict-theory, Durkheim from a structural-functional view and Weber is considered an interpretivist/dialectical theorist and focuses on organizational sociology.