Classical Social Thinkers

Industrial Revolution and consequent transformation of mode of production brought out dramatic and traumatic changes in the traditional feudal structure of the societies in Europe though the emergence of capitalism. The changes that were brought by these events have had far-reaching effects on the economic and social systems of these societies, commanding attention of thinkers. That gave rise to the discipline of presented their distinct analysis, casual and otherwise of these changes made efforts to highlight the different features of the emerging modern industrial capitalist society and also attempted to predict the future of the emerging of this society. Some of them engaged their attention on the issues related to development of Sociology as a Science. They laid down the theoretical foundations of sociology on which edifice of modern Sociological theories is erected. Besides, they also tried to analyse and interpret other sociological issues such as education, power structures, religion and the like. Among these sociological thinkers prominent are Karl Marx, Emile, Durkheim, Max Weber, Vilfredo Pareto and August Compte certain Indian Sociologists.

Acquaintance with the writings of these thinkers would equip the student with theoretical insights to know, analyse and interpret the social scenario around them and would also familiarize with the different sociological perspectives and theories. While teaching, emphasis should be critical analysis of the writing of these thinkers.