Essential Features of Modern Society in Sociological Discourse

Abstract

The paper suggests a comparative analysis of sociological discourse of modern society and modernization and systematically displays essential features of modernity. Five leading segments of the discourse are identified and an integrated approach on existing theories of modernity is elaborated. The novelty of the proposed analysis is a focus on profound similitude of different theories of modernity and possibility of synergic application of the distinct explanatory platforms. Such an application significantly differs from existing traditional vision of sociological discourse of modernity and modernization as a subsequent change of theoretical approaches or dramatic competition of alternative research programs. Suggested analysis allows identifying multiple dimensions of modernity that overall constitute a whole picture of modern society. In addition to the segments of the discourse of modernity and modernization that have been classified, a structure of essential features of modern society is revealed comprising 1) universality (invariance) of social development; 2) civilization variability and uniqueness of cultural programs; 3) emancipation trend and antinomies; 4) permanence of change and innovations; 5) increase of productivity, competitiveness and the quality of life.