Marx And Durkheim s Theory Of Social Inequality - 955 Words

Discussion of social inequality has been present in sociological works dating back as far as early 18th century in the works of Karl Marx and Emile Durkheim. Centuries later, theoretical foundations of both Marx and Durkheim can be readily applied to social inequality in the context of present day Canada. Durkheim’s theory is founded in analyzing how societies function by focusing on the ideas of the division of labour, merit and functionalism. Marx on the other hand, views society as divided into social classes of bourgeoisie and proletariats, while stressing the importance the role of capital plays in society in relation to inequality. Both Marx and Durkheim’s theories of modern society can be used to critically discuss social inequality in Canada. However, this paper will demonstrate the strength of Marx’s theory when compared to that of Durkheim in terms of their applications to Canadian social inequality. Marx’s theory is stronger in application due to Marx’s view of society accounting for conflicts and frictions between classes, while Durkheim’s view is problematic in application to Canadian social inequality as it ignores inequalities such as gender and class, which produce conflicts that disrupt Durkheim’s idea of a social equilibrium in society. People in present society are divided up into different positions in the work force. Durkheim sees society from a structural functionalist perspective and refers to society as a system of different organs, each with aShow MoreRelatedMarx And Durkheim s Theory Of Social Inequality933 Words   |  4 Pagesfoundations of both Marx and Durkheim can be readily applied to social inequality in the context of present day Canada. Durkheim’s theory is founded in analyzing how societies function by focusing on the ideas of the division of labour, merit and functionalism. Marx, on the other hand, views society as divided into social classes of the bourgeoisie and proletariats, while stressing the importance of the role of capital plays in society in relation to inequality. Both Marx and Durkheim’s theories of modernRead MoreKarl Marx, Emile Durkheim And Max Webers Influence On Religion1727 Words   |  7 PagesThree theorists, Karl Marx, Emile Durkheim and Max Weber, are undoub tedly the fathers of modern sociology. â€Å"Nineteenth century Western Europe was pounded by pivotal forces of transformation. Politics, education, religion, communication science, art, and social life were being revolutionized.† (Mohseni 1994;85) Each with distinct views on society and religion, these sociologists are and their theories are significant especially in the field of society. 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