The History of Sociology with the Most Important Names

Short explanations for each name

Photo by Lian Begett on Unsplash

18th century:

• Montesquieu: He developed the theory of the separation of powers, which suggests that the power of government should be divided among different branches to prevent tyranny. He also wrote on the social and political institutions of different societies.
• Voltaire: He was a French Enlightenment writer and historian known for his criticism of religious dogma and his advocacy of freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and separation of church and state.
• Jean-Jacques Rousseau: He contributed to the development of the social contract theory, which states that society should be based on a contract between the individual and the state. He also wrote on the importance of education and equality in society.

19th century:

• Auguste Comte: Known as the “Father of Sociology,” he coined the term “sociology” and developed the concept of positivism, which emphasizes the use of scientific methods to study society. He also proposed a hierarchy of sciences, with sociology at the highest level.

Early 20th century:

• Emile Durkheim: He focused on the study of social structures and social facts. He is considered one of the founders of sociology as an independent discipline. He wrote on the importance of social solidarity and the role of institutions in society.
• Max Weber: He wrote on social action and the concept of “verstehen” (understanding). He also studied the relationship between religion and capitalism, and the impact of bureaucracy on society.

Mid-20th century:

• Talcott Parsons: He focused on the study of social systems and how they maintain stability. He developed the theory of structural functionalism, which emphasizes the role of institutions in maintaining social order.
• Robert Merton: He developed the concept of “functional analysis” which emphasizes the role of social structures and institutions in maintaining social order.
• Karl Marx: He emphasized the role of class conflict in shaping society. He developed the theory of historical materialism, which states that economic conditions are the driving force behind social change.
• C. Wright Mills: He wrote on the role of power and social class in shaping society. He developed the concept of the “power elite,” which states that a small group of people at the top of society hold most of the power.

Late 20th century:

• George Herbert Mead: He developed the theory of symbolic interactionism, which emphasizes the role of symbols and communication in shaping society.
• Michel Foucault: He is considered a key figure in postmodernism. He wrote on the role of power and knowledge in shaping society.
• Simone de Beauvoir: She is considered one of the founders of feminist sociology. She wrote on the social construction of gender and the impact of patriarchy on society.

21st century:

• Manuel Castells: He wrote on the impact of globalization and technology on society. He developed the concept of the “network society,” which states that society is becoming increasingly interconnected through technology.
• Zygmunt Bauman: He wrote on the impact of globalization on society. He developed the concept of “liquid modernity,” which states that society is becoming increasingly fluid and uncertain.

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