SOC101 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Thomas Theorem, Class Conflict, Georg Simmel
22 Feb 2013
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Chapter 2: classical social theories theory - statement that tries to explain how certain facts or variables are related to predict future events. Analyzed humans existence before formal social structure (government) Natural state - conception of human condition before the emergence of formal social structures. People motivated by self interest and pursuit of power. Humans are building blocks of society role of government is to preserve individual ability to achieve self interests. John locke (1632 - 1704) tabula rasa - everyone starts with a blank slate, gain knowledge through experience. God was responsible for the emergence of society and government. Believed government was there to preserve a persons right to maintain propery inconsistent mimstakes with god"s will, mistakes would be judged by god alone. Spirit of a society is not what it is, but what it wants to become. Jean jacques rousseau (1712 - 1778) insighted into state of nature and social contract.
