SOCIOLOGY

Sociological Theory in the Classical Era



Sociological Theory in the Classical Era

Question # 1

Imagine a debate between Marx and Weber about the rise of capitalism in modern society.

What would Marx say about Weber's emphasis on the role of ideas and the Protestant ethic to explain this rise, and what would Weber say about Marx's use of historical materialism (specifically, the base-superstructure model and class struggle) to explain it? About what would they agree and disagree, and why?

Answer # 1

Capitalism

Concept

Capitalism is the form of society involving a minority and having either a rule over them or rule by them. It is also regarded, as the order social manipulation resulting from the economic freedom in the usage and enjoyment of private property on the capital as a production tool.

In history, ruling classes being the minority, created the surplus and ruled out the people and masses and created capitalism, they attained the tendency to buy the work capacity of the people, what is referred to as the Marx 'labor power'. Historian used the power of labor for the development of their own luxuries and not the development of the economy.

In current economic seniors, the minorities are being used by masses for the economic development and growth. Since, the capitalist society come in relation with capital and its production relations; therefore, individuals and companies carry out production and exchange of goods or services as free within the division of labor, for the purpose of monetary gain necessary to obtain resources in accordance with any order of the late within the framework of cooperation mediated by the market. The distribution, the production and prices of goods and services are determined by the free market, and the supply and demand between producers and consumers.

Capitalism is grounded on democratic endeavor and believes that there should be restricted government intervention. It argues that free market should be based only on supply and demand, which will eventually maximize consumers' benefits. Capitalism promotes the freedom of independent venture; however, the government is required to take action against its abuses like slavery and financial fraud.

It can still exist, under military dictatorship like the Scandinavian democratic socialism states, South Korea's rapid state-sponsored industrialized growth, and Japan's consent politics all coexist with capitalism. However, since the 1930s Great Depression, substantial government involvement has existed in spite of the capitalist principle of "hands-off" government, in most of the capitalist nations. It also exists in the form of taxes, incentives, grants and other exemption in some countries.

Rise of Capitalism in American Society

The issue of the rise of capitalism in American society remains like an ideological importance. It is considered that the capitalism rose in America due to the 'Judaeo-Christian' or Hellenic cultural inheritance. They believe on the fact that the western values should be different from African, Islamic, indigenous Americans or any other culture, which becomes responsible for the deprivation of any nation.

The theory of Marxist and Weber followed a narrow scope and concentrated more on the factors of America's transition from feudalism to capitalism after ...