Sosiologie in Suid-Afrika: Die toekoms?

Abstract

Abstract Sociology in South Africa: The future? The realities of South Africa's already complex economic, social, and political situation are gOing to change dramatically within the next twelve years (± up to the year 2000) and become even more complex. The key to the optimal handling of the attendant problems lies in bringing about change in the South African power structure — change that is so incisive and rapid, and therefore revolutionary, that It can hardly be termed evolutionary change. However, at the same time a distinction should be drawn between constructive (relatively bloodless and creative) and destructive (bloody and negative) revolution. The sociologist in South Africa cannot remain uninvolved — in so doing he would be fence-sitting and neglecting his scientific duty. This duty and mission is the optimal improvement of the standard of living of the majority of people in his society. The time has come for every South African sociologist to decide for himself whether he is going to follow the path of constructive or destructive revolution to a new future. The author rejects the destructive option since it can only reduce the quality of life for all, and accepts the constructive option. Some key characteristics of the role of the sociologist who favours this option are stated.