SCS730: Analysis of Social Change Theorists
Description (2000 WORDS)
You will write an advanced critical and comparative analysis of two, selected social theorists’ ideas in order to make sense of a major conceptual issue (eg the nature of power, the basis of knowledge, oppression/emancipation, sustainability, social change) in understanding contemporary society. It is an expectation that students will consult at least eight scholarly sources in the construction of this essay.
TOPIC
- Compare and critically evaluate the accounts of social change in the works of two of the following social theorists: Karl Marx, Max Weber, Emile Durkheim, Michel Foucault or Zygmunt Bauman with reference to the transition from traditional to modern society in Europe. Be sure to identify the way each theorist conceptualised the types of society that existed before and after the transition to modernity as well as the dynamics they each saw as driving social change. In concluding your analysis, you are asked to consider if these dynamics are still relevant in our context and whether they are leading us to a better or worse situation for society?
In this essay you must:
- Demonstrate an advanced and accurate knowledge of the relevant concepts and theories of two (depending on choice of essay question) social thinkers for understanding a major problem of our ti
- Demonstrate advanced critical and comparative skills in the use of social theory in understanding and challenging dominant conceptions of contemporary social
- Develop and sustain a logical and compelling argument, based on your comparative analysis of the two theories, addressing the main concern of your chosen essay question/
- Demonstrate creativity in discussing how critical social theory can elucidate major conceptual issues (such as power, knowledge, inequality, domination, emancipation or difference) to inform praxis for a more just, participatory and sustainable