KENYATTA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONAL
FOUNDATION
EFN 214
SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION
GROUP 1 WORK

Q2 Discuss the contribution of the following to the development of

sociology of Education
• Herbert Spencer
• Auguste Comte
• Emile Durkheim

GROUP MEMBERS
Name Reg no Sign
1. Brighton Kisia E35/2248/2019
2. Emanuel Wangila E35/1705/2022
3. Jamila Kassim E35/2268/2022
4. Dorine Cheronoh E35/2177/2022
5. Veronica Kioko E35/2044/2022
6.

-1-
Q2 Discuss the contribution of the following to the development of sociology of Education
• Herbert Spencer
• Auguste Comte
• Emile Durkheim

The field of sociology of education has been shaped and enriched by the profound insights of
several influential thinkers, each offering unique perspectives on the interplay between society and
the educational system. Among these luminaries, Herbert Spencer, Auguste Comte, and Emile
Durkheim stand as pillars, each leaving an indelible mark on our understanding of how education
is intricately woven into the fabric of society.
In this exploration, we embark on a journey to unravel the profound contributions of these three
visionaries. Herbert Spencer, a pioneer in applying evolutionary principles to social institutions,
will guide us through his ideas on the adaptive role of education in a changing world. Auguste
Comte, the founder of positivism, introduces us to the empirical foundations of the sociology of
education and its place in the hierarchy of sciences. Finally, Emile Durkheim, a champion of social
cohesion and moral education, invites us to reflect on the profound significance of education in
nurturing not just minds, but also the very essence of a harmonious society.

HERBERT SPENCER
Herbert Spencer was a prominent figure in the development of the sociology of education. He
made significant contributions to the field through his ideas on social evolution and the role of
education in society. Here are some key points regarding his contributions:
Social Evolution: Spencer was a proponent of the theory of social evolution, drawing parallels
between biological evolution and societal development. He believed that societies, like organisms,

-2-
evolve from simple to complex states. This perspective influenced how he viewed education’s role
in this evolutionary process.
Organic Analogy: Spencer applied the “organic analogy” to society, suggesting that society
functions like a biological organism with various parts working together for its survival and
progress. Education, according to him, played a role in the maintenance and growth of society.
Function of Education: Spencer saw education as a means to prepare individuals for their roles
in society, much like organs in a body have specific functions. He emphasized that education
should adapt to the needs of society and prepare individuals to fulfill their societal roles effectively.
Laissez-Faire Approach: Spencer was an advocate of minimal state intervention in education,
emphasizing the importance of individual freedom and limited government involvement. He
believed that education should be left to private enterprise and should adapt naturally through
market forces.
Criticisms: Spencer’s ideas have been criticized for promoting social Darwinism and for not
taking into account issues of social inequality, discrimination, and the role of government in
ensuring equal educational opportunities. His views on education’s role in social progress have
also been challenged.
In summary, Herbert Spencer’s contributions to the sociology of education centered on his
application of evolutionary and organic analogies to society and the belief that education should
prepare individuals for their roles within a changing society. While his ideas were influential in
their time, they have been subject to criticism and debate, particularly in the context of modern
educational and social issues.

AUGUSTE COMTE
Auguste comte was born on January 20,1978.He was a French philosopher who is considered to
be the father of sociology,the study of the development and function of human society and of
positivism, a means of using scientific evidence to discern causes for human behavior.
This are some of his contributions and their relevance to the development of sociology of education
today.
Positivism: He advocated for a positivist approach to the study of society, emphasizing the use of
empirical data and scientific methods to understand social phenomena including education. This
scientific orientation still influences contemporary research in the sociology of education,
promoting evidence based practices and rigorous analysis.
Social order: He also emphasized the importance of maintaining social order and cohesion. He
believed education played a crucial role in the transmitting of social values and norms, fostering
social stability. This perspective remains relevant today as education continues to be seen as a
means of socializing individuals and promoting social integration.

-3-
Hierarchy of Sciences: Comte proposed a hierarchy of sciences, with sociology as the highest
and most complex. Education was seen as an important part of this societal framework,
contributing to the understanding of social order and progress.
Theological and Metaphysical Stages: Comte’s theory of societal development included three
stages: the theological, metaphysical, and scientific. Education was seen as evolving from religious
and philosophical teachings to more scientific and rational principles.
Function of Education: Comte saw education as a means to transmit not only knowledge but also
the moral and ethical values necessary for social harmony. He emphasized the importance of
education in shaping the moral character of individuals.
He also brought about the idea of social change. He recognized the impact of social change on
education system. He argued that education needs to adapt to societal transformation and reflect
the evolving needs of individuals and communities. This notion remains pertinent in education
today, as societies undergo rapid changes such as technological advancement which is necessitate
adjustment in educational approaches.
Auguste Comte’s ideas on positivism, the role of education in social order, and the systematic
study of society significantly influenced the development of the sociology of education and the
broader field of sociology. His work helped establish a framework for understanding how
education is both a reflection of and a contributor to the structure and dynamics of society.

EMILE DURKHEIM
Emile Durkheim, a renowned French sociologist, made substantial contributions to the sociology
of education. His ideas and research laid the groundwork for understanding the role of education
in society. Here are some key contributions:
Social Solidarity: Durkheim’s work emphasized the importance of social solidarity in maintaining
a stable society. He argued that education plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and
shared values among individuals, which helps prevent anomie (a state of normlessness or moral
confusion).
Functionalism: Durkheim is often associated with the functionalist perspective in sociology,
which views society as a system with interrelated parts. In this context, he saw education as a
functional institution that served to integrate individuals into the broader social structure by
teaching them societal norms, values, and skills.
Moral Education: Durkheim believed that education should not only impart academic knowledge
but also instill moral values. He argued that education should teach the moral and ethical principles
that underpin social order and cohesion.
The Division of Labor: In his work on the division of labor, Durkheim explored how education
adapts to and reflects changes in the economic and industrial structures of society. He observed
that education systems evolved in response to the changing needs of an industrialized society.

-4-
Anomie and Education: Durkheim’s concept of anomie, which is a state of normlessness and
moral confusion, was linked to education. He suggested that a lack of proper education and moral
guidance could contribute to anomie in society.
Collective Consciousness: Durkheim’s concept of collective consciousness refers to the shared
beliefs and values of a society. He argued that education helps in the transmission of collective
consciousness from one generation to the next, reinforcing social cohesion.
Social Facts: Durkheim introduced the idea of “social facts” – external, objective forces that
influence individuals’ behavior. He applied this concept to education, viewing educational
institutions as social facts that shape individuals and society.

Emile Durkheim’s contributions to the sociology of education have had a lasting impact on how
sociologists understand the relationship between education and society. His ideas on social
integration, moral education, and the role of education in maintaining social order continue to
influence the study and practice of education today.

In conclusion, we are reminded that the work of Spencer, Comte, and Durkheim is a testament to
the enduring relevance of sociological inquiry into the realm of education. Their legacies inspire
us to continue exploring the complex and ever-evolving relationship between educational
institutions and the broader societies they serve. Through their insights, we are encouraged to
embark on a path of continued discovery and reflection, for it is through understanding that we
have the power to shape a more enlightened and harmonious society. Their contributions continue
to guide our pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and social harmony. The sociology of education, as
shaped by these three visionaries, remains a beacon, casting light on the profound interconnections
between learning, culture, and the ever-evolving social order.

-5-
 REFERENCES

Durkheim, E. (1956). Emile Durkheim on the Family: With an Introduction by Steve Lukes.
University of Chicago Press.
Comte, A. (1975). The Positive Philosophy of Auguste Comte. Hafner Publishing.
Ritzer, G. (2014). Classical Sociological Theory. McGraw-Hill Education.
Turner, J. H., & Turner, R. J. (2014). The Impossible Science: An Institutional Analysis of
American Sociology. SAGE Publications.
Sweet, M. (2006). Herbert Spencer. Continuum International Publishing Group.

-6-