According to Ritzer’s description of Marx, Durkheim, and Weber, what level of society did all three major early social theorists focus on in their works? Of the three, which were critical and which were positive in their views?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Marx, Weber, and Durkheim had in a common a focus on the macro structures of society. Marx and Weber were both critical of these macro structures. Marx criticized capitalism while Weber was critical of the rationalization of society in capitalist systems. Durkheim was not like Marx and Weber. He had a mostly positive view of macro structures, feeling that they were not only necessary but highly desirable. Marx and Weber worried about too much control over the individual by society, but Durkheim worried more about too little control or guidance to help the individual function well in society and control his or her passions.