Theorists of Modern Politics: Marx, Durkheim, Weber

The course examines the role of politics in modern societies, as seen through the lens of Karl Marx, Emile Durkheim, and Max Weber, three foundational theorists of 20th century social science. The same questions guide the analysis of each author. First, what is the role of politics in the historical development of modern societies? Second, what is the relationship between economy and politics in modern societies? And, third, what are the tensions, crises and 'contradictions' between politics and economics in modern societies that produce conflict and institutional change? Finally, what is their methodological advice to produce good social science?