What is social change? Discuss the theory of social change as propounded by the classical social thinkers like Marx, Weber and Durkherin.

Social Change:
Social change refers to the alteration or transformation of social structures, institutions, and patterns of human interaction over time. It involves modifications in the way society is organized, the values and beliefs held by individuals, and the relationships between various social entities. Social change can be gradual or rapid, intentional or unintentional, and may result from internal dynamics or external forces.

Classical Social Thinkers on Social Change:

1. Karl Marx:
   Karl Marx, a key figure in sociology and economics, viewed social change through the lens of historical materialism and the evolution of economic systems. Marx argued that changes in the mode of production, such as the transition from feudalism to capitalism, drive social change. He emphasized the role of class struggle, asserting that conflicts between social classes propel societies through stages of historical development. In the capitalist mode of production, Marx envisioned inherent contradictions leading to a proletarian revolution and the establishment of a classless, communist society.

2. Max Weber:
   Max Weber's theory of social change focused on the role of ideas, values, and rationalization. Unlike Marx, Weber acknowledged the importance of cultural and religious factors in shaping societal transformations. He introduced the concept of the "Protestant Ethic" to explain the influence of Protestantism on the rise of capitalism. Weber also explored the concept of rationalization, emphasizing the increasing dominance of bureaucratic and rationalized structures in modern societies. According to Weber, social change results from the interplay of various factors, including economic, cultural, and bureaucratic elements.

3. Emile Durkheim:
   Emile Durkheim, a founding figure in sociology, approached social change by examining the evolving nature of social solidarity. Durkheim identified two types of social solidarity: mechanical solidarity, characterized by shared values and similarities, and organic solidarity, arising from interdependence in complex, industrial societies. He argued that as societies progress, they experience a shift from mechanical to organic solidarity, reflecting increased specialization and differentiation of social roles. Durkheim also studied the impact of social change on anomie, a state of normlessness resulting from rapid social transformations.

Points of Convergence and Divergence:

1. Economic Factors:

   • Marx: Emphasized the primacy of economic factors, particularly changes in the mode of production, as the driving force behind social change.
   • Weber: Recognized the significance of economic factors but also highlighted the role of cultural values and religious beliefs in shaping social change.

2. Role of Ideas and Values:

   • Marx: Gave relatively less attention to the role of ideas and values in social change compared to economic structures.
   • Weber: Emphasized the importance of ideas, values, and cultural factors, especially in the context of the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism.

3. Social Solidarity:

   • Durkheim: Focused on the transition from mechanical to organic solidarity, emphasizing the changing nature of social bonds as societies evolve.
   • Marx and Weber: Did not explicitly delve into the concept of social solidarity, as Durkheim did.

In summary, while Marx, Weber, and Durkheim all contributed significantly to understanding social change, their theories had distinct emphases and perspectives. Marx's focus on economic structures, Weber's attention to cultural values, and Durkheim's exploration of social solidarity collectively enrich our understanding of the complex processes that drive societal transformations. These classical theories continue to be influential in contemporary sociological discussions on social change.