Sociology Theories of Emile Durkheim and Max Weber

These flashcards cover key concepts from the sociology theories of Emile Durkheim and Max Weber, focusing on their contributions, distinctions between disciplines, and the implications of their work.

Who was Emile Durkheim and what did he study?

Emile Durkheim was a Jewish French sociologist recognized as the founder of modern sociology, who studied social facts and aimed to make sociology a distinct academic discipline.

Why is Emile Durkheim important to Sociology?

Durkheim established sociology as a legitimate field of study, founded the first modern Sociology Department, and defined 'Social Facts' as sociology's unique subject matter.

What are the key differences between Sociology and Psychology according to Durkheim?

Psychology studies internal mental processes, while Sociology studies external social facts that influence behavior.

What are Immaterial Social Facts?

Non-physical, cultural, or moral phenomena like language, traditions, customs, and beliefs that represent shared values and norms.

What are Material Social Facts?

Tangible, structural, and institutional aspects of society like laws and governments that reflect the concrete organization of society.

What did Durkheim infer about Naturalism?

Durkheim rejected Naturalism, believing social phenomena cannot be reduced to biology and that society has its own unique laws and dynamics.

What influenced Max Weber's Sociological views?

Weber's mother, Helene Fallenstein, instilled in him the Protestant ethic emphasizing personal faith, discipline, and hard work.

What is the Fact/Value distinction in Weber's Sociology?

The separation of objective facts from subjective values; sociology must recognize both what is (facts) and what ought to be (values).

How does Weber reconcile the Fact/Value distinction for happiness?

Weber reconciles it through the Protestant work ethic, where the marketplace fulfills material needs and is infused with moral purpose.

What does Weber add to Durkheim's view on happiness?

Weber states that the marketplace is essential to achieving happiness, providing structure and purpose through productive work.

What is Weber's 'recipe' for a happy society?

Rational organization and a moral framework; societies must function efficiently and be guided by ethical principles.

Who was Max Weber and what did he study?

Max Weber was a German sociologist who studied the relationship between religion, culture, and modern capitalism, focusing on how Protestant beliefs shaped economic behavior.

What is the 'Spirit of Capitalism'?

A moral attitude that values hard work, efficiency, seeing work as an end in itself, and treating success as a sign of divine favor.

How do Protestants differ from Traditionalists in their work ethic?

Protestants view work as both instrumental to earning and intrinsic as a moral duty, while Traditionalists work enough just to maintain their lifestyle.

What does 'calling' mean in Weber's theory?

'Calling' means one’s occupation is chosen by God for a divine purpose, serving God's plan through excellent work.

What are the ethical implications of the Protestant work ethic?

Protestants live humbly, reinvest profits for growth, see wealth as a blessing for good and view work as a moral obligation.

What changes exist between traditional economies and capitalist economies?

Traditional economies focus on limited work hours and modest profits, while capitalist economies prioritize efficiency, reinvestment, and productivity.

What motivates capitalist development according to Weber?

A moral 'spirit' that values discipline, reliability, and responsibility, essential for building trust and success in business.

How did capitalism evolve from its religious roots?

Modern entrepreneurs may no longer be religiously motivated, but they embody the same disciplined work ethic that characterized the early capitalist spirit.

What is 'economic rationalism' for Weber?

The drive to organize labor efficiently based on logic and science to maximize productivity.

What tension exists between traditionalism and capitalist productivity?

Capitalist expansion often conflicts with traditional attitudes valuing leisure, leading workers to stop once needs are met.

What is Weber's overall conclusion about capitalism?

The rise of capitalism reflects a shift from traditional, comfort-based living to a disciplined, work-centered lifestyle influenced by Protestant ethics.