"(Durkheim 1982, pg. 82) This is illustrating how social science is a way of objectively analyzing society. It is different from other disciplines by showing how it is seeking to look at different collective facts. This is in order to understand why everyone will behave and react in a particular fashion. (Gane 2010) (Applerouth 2008)
Furthermore, it must respect all scientific principles and be as objective in possible when analyzing various facts. A good example of this can be seen with Durkheim saying, "The principal effort of the sociologist must therefore be directed towards objectively discovering the different properties of that environment." (Durkheim 1982, pg. 136) This is illustrating how social scientists must be neutral in their analysis of various social factors. The way that this exemplifies a theoretical approach is to demonstrate how society can be analyzed and studied. When this happens, a greater understanding can take place of various motivations and causes of different events. (Gane 2010) (Applerouth 2008)
Compare and evaluate the two theories, identifying the similarities, strengths and weaknesses of their theories of society.
The two theories are similar to each other in seeking understand the root causes of various social consequences. The biggest strengths of Marx's ideas are that it is identifying a fundamental problem with capitalism. While the greatest weakness, is not identifying how to effectively solve these challenges other than open revolt. Moreover, his ideas are not considering the impact of human greed on pushing someone to act a certain way. (Eldes 2009) (Wood 1987)
Durkheim's ideas are similar to Marx by seeking to understand the causes of particular events and ideas upon society. Its biggest drawbacks are that some situations cannot be objectively analyzed (as there are other root causes). That will have an impact on human behavior and emotions. This means that select insights could be flawed based upon failing to take these views into account. (Gane 2010) (Applerouth 2008)
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