Karl Marx and Sociology

Founders of Sociology

• The intellectuals who were considered the new priestly caste of the 'Religion of Humanity' were the sociologists.

Marx's Beliefs

• Marx's belief that history is primarily driven by conflict between different social classes is known as the class struggle.

Émile Durkheim's Views

• Émile Durkheim believed that individuals were shaped exclusively by society.
• In 1895, Émile Durkheim founded the first university sociology department.

Auguste Comte's Contributions

• Auguste Comte used the term 'Sociology' to describe the study of social structures and institutions.
• In Auguste Comte's view, Sociology aimed to achieve a scientific understanding of society.
• Auguste Comte introduced the concept of 'Positivism' to signify a belief system that emphasizes progress, equality, and the betterment of humanity.
• The thinker who greatly influenced Auguste Comte in the development of sociology was Claude Henri de Saint-Simon.
• Auguste Comte believed that observation and experimentation were the main approaches in providing a scientific explanation of society.
• He believed that systematic observation and collection of data could advance human understanding of how societies function and change.
• In Auguste Comte's terminology, the concept of 'Social Statics' refers to institutions that allow society to function smoothly and harmoniously.
• Auguste Comte's concept of 'Social Dynamics' relates to social institutions by studying the processes of change and development in society.

Test your knowledge on Karl Marx and his perspectives on society, religion, and social classes. Learn about the role of sociologists in relation to the 'Religion of Humanity' and the concept of historical materialism.