The essay will begin by providing a brief introduction into the two perspectives of Functionalism and Marxism, focusing on the theories of the French Sociologist Emile Durkheim and the German philosopher Karl Marx. Then it will give a brief discussion showing the transformation that took place from feudalism to capitalism, providing the reader with an insight into the dramatic change that took place during a time of revolution and revolt. Finally the essay will compare and contrast Marx’s idea of class and class conflict with Durkheim’s theory on the Division of labour.
The Functionalist perspective is more commonly linked to the sociologist Emile Durkheim (1858-1917). Durkheim was born in France and was responsible for creating the European Department Of Sociology. It is through the many great theories constructed by Durkheim that sociology could be considered a social science. Functionalists analyse what needs must be adhered to in order for society to function, including the ways in which social institutions benefit and contribute to those needs. Functionalists believe that society functions when all of its parts work in accordance with one another. It is believed that society is held together by a social consensus or a cohesion, meaning that members of a particular society work together to maintain the best for the society as a whole (Fulcher & Scott:1999).
The Marxist perspective was created by Karl Marx (1828-1883) a German Philosopher. Marx highlighted the importance of class conflict and social change during the industrial era in England throughout the nineteenth century. Marx was considered a conflict theorist who believed that conflict was a necessity for society to survive. Marx believed that due to the conflict created in capitalist society, two distinct classes would be created these include the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. Marx held that society will create much