Monday, March 22, 2010

Sociology & Anthropology Trivia Question 5

Which founding sociologist identified the bourgeoisie and proletariat classes?

a. Herbert Spencer
b. Karl Marx
c. Emile Durkheim
d. Max Weber

The answer is B, Karl Marx!

Marx argued for a systemic understanding of socio-economic change. He argued that the structural contradictions within capitalism necessitate its end, giving way to socialism:"The development of Modern Industry, therefore, cuts from under its feet the very foundation on which the bourgeoisie produces and appropriates products. What the bourgeoisie, therefore, produces, above all, are its own grave-diggers. Its fall and the victory of the proletariat are equally inevitable"(The Communist Manifesto). Max Weber disagreed with of Marx's ideas. While Marx believed that economics was the major force in social change, Weber said that religion was the cause of social change. Emile Durkheim is best known for his work with suicide. Spencer promoted the theory of "social Darwinism".

Stay curious,
Team ARC

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