Question

As to their views, what are the significant differences and similarities between Marx and Weber? And, specifically, how do their views compare with Durkheim’s?

Answer 1

Differences.

• Marx believes the role of a social scientist was to change the world whereas Weber viewed the role of a social scientist was as an observer
• Marx views profit and accumulating wealth as negative while Weber viewed it positive

Similarities.

• Weber viewed the people in the modern world are trapped in the iron cage while Marx people in the modern world are alienated
• Views compared with Durkheim
• Their theories were based on social factors