The Problem of Societal Transition

Outstanding sociologists, economists, and historians have been perennially concerned with the nature and rise of "modern society." The various societal dichotomies involving contrasts between simple and complex cultures evoke questions about societal evolution and transition. Durkheim seems to say that there is no general principle of societal transformation (and the "branching theory" of societal evolution apparently supports him). In this discussion I am particularly concerned with cultural transition to capitalism. I have therefore considered especially the approaches of Max Weber and Talcott Parsons. I have attempted, moreover, to sketch the relevant analysis of my own point of view.