Match the following key sociologists with their contributions:

Column A (Sociologist)	Column B (Contribution)
1. Karl Marx	A. Concept of Alienation
2. Max Weber	B. Division of Labour
3. Emile Durkheim	C. Rationalisation
4. Harry Braverman	D. Deskilling of workers due to mechanisation

The correct answer is - 1 - A, 2 - C, 3 - B, 4 - D

Key Points

• Karl Marx - Concept of Alienation
  • Karl Marx introduced the concept of alienation in his analysis of capitalist society.
  • Alienation refers to the separation of workers from the products of their labor, leading to a sense of disconnection and powerlessness.
  • This alienation occurs because workers do not own the means of production and are forced to sell their labor.
• Max Weber - Rationalisation
  • Max Weber is known for his analysis of rationalisation within society.
  • Rationalisation involves the replacement of traditional and emotional thought with reason and practicality.
  • It is a key concept in Weber's study of bureaucracy and the development of modern Western societies.
• Emile Durkheim - Division of Labour
  • Emile Durkheim explored the division of labour in his work on social order and cohesion.
  • He argued that the division of labor leads to increased specialization and interdependence among workers.
  • Durkheim believed this specialization contributes to social solidarity but can also lead to anomie if not properly regulated.
• Harry Braverman - Deskilling of workers due to mechanisation
  • Harry Braverman analyzed the impact of mechanization on workers in his book "Labor and Monopoly Capital."
  • He introduced the concept of deskilling, where workers’ skills are eroded due to the introduction of automated machinery.
  • This process leads to increased management control and reduced workers’ autonomy.

Additional Information

• Capitalism
  • Karl Marx's work focused extensively on the critique of capitalism.
  • He believed that capitalism leads to the exploitation of workers and inherent class struggles.
• Bureaucracy
  • Max Weber's analysis of bureaucracy highlights its efficiency and rational structure.
  • He pointed out the potential for bureaucracy to become an "iron cage," restricting individual freedom.
• Social Solidarity
  • Emile Durkheim’s concept of social solidarity is central to his sociology.
  • He categorized it into mechanical solidarity (based on similarity) and organic solidarity (based on interdependence).
• Monopoly Capital
  • Harry Braverman's work "Labor and Monopoly Capital" examines the dynamics of monopoly capitalism.
  • He explored the effects of monopoly capitalism on the labor process and the working class.