Question

Who among the following is associated with the cyclical theory of social change ?

• A. Sorokin
• B. Hobhouse
• C. Parsons
• D. Merton

Hint:

For theories of social change, remember the key figures for each type: Linear/Evolutionary (Comte, Spencer, Hobhouse) vs. Cyclical (Spengler, Toynbee, Sorokin).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Theories of social change can be broadly classified into linear/evolutionary theories and cyclical theories. Cyclical theories argue that societies go through repeated cycles or stages of growth, maturity, and decline, rather than progressing in a straight line.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Pitirim A. Sorokin is a major proponent of the cyclical theory of social change. He proposed a theory of "socio-cultural dynamics," arguing that societies oscillate between three cultural mentalities: the \textit{Ideational} (spiritually oriented), the \textit{Sensate} (materialistically oriented), and the \textit{Idealistic} (a synthesis of the two).
- L.T. Hobhouse proposed an evolutionary theory of social development.
- Talcott Parsons and Robert K. Merton are functionalist theorists, and their work is not primarily associated with cyclical theories of large-scale historical change.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Pitirim Sorokin is associated with the cyclical theory of social change.