As discussed earlier that social change is inevitable. Structure of Societies evolve with the passage of time and lead towards modernization. Modernization refer to progressive social change whereby means and procedures of production become more efficient than before. Rationalization is the core component of modernization process — when traditional societies become more rational they transform into modern societies. Which implies that, traditional societies are based on non-rational rules and procedures whereas, modern societies are based on rational rules and procedures. Non-rational does not mean that the norms of pre-modern societies did not make any sense however, it insinuates that the norms of pre-modern societies are based on traditional values or traditions. As institutions are established within societies in order to tend to the certain needs of individuals or to achieve certain goals. However, Pre-modern societies are not interested in the efficiency of rules and procedures which lead to the accomplishment institutional goals or objectives. Instead, these societies ensure that means of accomplishing objectives should be in accordance to the tradition values of society — regardless of outcome. Whereas, modern societies are focus on maximizing the efficiency in order to achieve institutional objectives.
Max Weber is among one of the founding fathers of sociology. He pioneered and presented the theory of rationalization. Rationalization refer to the formal rules regulation and procedures. He believed that societies evolve due to the advancement of science, technology, expending capitalism and bureaucratization as well as, advancement such as these take place because of rationalization. Traditional societies transform into modern societies because traditions are replaced by intellectual or rational rules and procedures within social institutions. He argued that, due to the advent of rational rules and procedures, all the incalculable forces are eliminated from economic structure of modern societies. Whereby, means and procedures of production are adjusted systematically in order to obtain and maximize profit. In addition to predictability of outcome and maximization of efficiency individuals also become professional and organized within modern societies. However, rational rules are only concerned with maximization of efficiency without considering individuals concerns. No matter if these rules and procedures are boring or exhausting for individuals. Weber acknowledges that, rationalization is no doubt responsible for many social advancement but, over a time it will become bad thing. When rationalization increase within a given society individuals will feel trapped in cage of formal rules and procedures.
Written by; Khushdil Khan Kasi
