'Sociology grew as a product of the reflection of great thinkers reflecting on society'. Comment.

The social challenges posed by modernity, Industrial revolution, French revolutions like slums, poverty, reducing solidarity in society led to many early sociologists discussing these issues.

KARL MARX studied about the exploitation of labourers by Capitalists. DURKHEIM reflected on specialised Division of labor, anomie and solidarity in society. Herbert Spencer and Parsons wrote about modernity.

Even before these sociologists, great thinkers like Rene Descartes (Book "Divine Comedy"), John Locke (Concept of fundamental Natural rights), Montasquieu (Concept of separation of power) etc. discussed issues in the society.

Hence sociology in Europe emerged as a product of reflection of great thinkers. In India sociology emerged to correct the colonial version of Indian society. (Ex - Ghurye, MN Srinivas).

IRWIN ZETLIN argues that sociology emerged as a result of enlightenment and many intellectuals reflecting on the conditions of society.

TB BOTTOMORE argues that sociology emerged as a reflection of social changes and was affected by political philosophy given by Montasquieu, Rousseau etc., philosophy of History, Philosophy of organic Evolution and movements for social and political reforms like French Revolution etc.

Early intellectuals like Dante (Book - Divine Comedy), Montesquieu (Book - "I think therefore I am") etc. reflected and critically analysed the traditional religious beliefs of society.

After Industrial revolution, French revolution etc., many social thinkers like Marx, Durkheim, Comte etc reflected on problems faced by the society.