The sociological idea of society was a leading theme in
classical and modern sociology. It legitimated the sui generis nature of sociology and its demand to stand as
an independent scientific discipline. Social forces were
seen as formative of society and the collective sphere
as well as the individual during the historical period of
democratization through the influence of large popular
movements.
To what extent has sociology in late modernism or
postmodernism, with increasing cultural individualism and
social differentiation, moved away from the idea of
collective forces in society? Is such a change a threat to
the claims of sociology to hold the key which helps to
understand the socially formative nature of mankind and
existing societies?
Also the “cultural turn” in sociology may be viewed as
turning away from questions about “society”. Structural
macro theories about society have increasingly been
challenged by theories focusing on individual actors,
usually in a micro or a global network.
Finally sociologists may view dissolutive tendencies
concerning the structures and institutions of present day
societies, e.g. concerning the family, church/religion,
political organizations and parties, work and employment
etc.
