Social Theory at Work

Social Theory at Work

Introduction

Social theories act as empirical frameworks applied in studying, as well as interpreting socially observable facts, like work. Work is a social status, which every individual enjoys. It is through work that people are able to afford a happy lifestyle. There is an underlying principle associated with working. The statement “workers act rationally to pursue financial success” depicts financial success as a major reason why employees find pleasure in employment. It is apparent that by working, people earn salaries, which in turn makes it possible to purchase what one desires, or make investments among other monetary uses. Social theory concepts assist in evaluating the rationality in working to ensure financial success. The paper discusses the statement by referring to the concepts of Weber and Durkheim.

Argument

        Rationalization regards to the procedure through which contemporary society has progressively concentrated on; efficiency, attaining the most outcome with minimal effort; predictability, a longing to foretell what will take place in prospect; calculability; worry over numerical data; and dehumanization, using technology as a way of regulating human conduct. Rationalization is an outcome of scientific study, as well as technology development in the western globe. Through minimizing tradition’s grip on community, rationalization results in advent practices. In place of human conduct being encouraged by customs, rationalization results in conduct, which is directed by reason and practicality. In the statement “workers act rationally to pursue financial success” the concept of rationality is apparent. Through an analysis of the ideas of rationalization by Weber and Durkheim, society has been depicted as an altering place where individuals are more interested in actions, which lead to their maximum benefit. This has happened due to alterations in social norms and practices over time. Thus, even when individuals are working their hidden agenda lies in ensuring that the work results in their monetary success.

        Weber’s reference to rationalization is obvious in all sectors of society. For instance, individuals pursue education with the objective of getting credentials, and job training, after which they labor and optimistically become promoted up to their retirement. On the other hand, Durkheim provides a basis for making sense of life’s solidity and the layers of incorporation, manipulation and restriction, which maintain it. In this and diverse manners, our contemporary life forms have embodied a majority of the gains and expenses of surviving in a rationalized social globe. It is for this reasons that people will reasonably work, aware that through working they will be capable of getting the money required in succeeding socially. Social success mainly applies to being capable of purchasing what one desires.