Propounder of Cyclical Theory of Social Change

The propounder of the cyclical theory of social change is Oswald Spengler. This theory suggests that civilizations go through a cycle of birth, growth, decline, and death. Spengler argued that every civilization has a limited lifespan and that the decline of a civilization is inevitable.

The Cyclical Theory of Social Change

The cyclical theory of social change is based on the idea that civilizations have a natural life cycle. According to Spengler, civilizations go through the following stages:

1. Birth: In the birth stage, a civilization is founded by a group of people who share a common culture, language, and identity.

2. Growth: In the growth stage, the civilization expands and develops its culture, economy, and political system. This is the period of the civilization's greatest achievements.

3. Decline: In the decline stage, the civilization begins to lose its vitality and creative energy. The political system becomes corrupt, the economy stagnates, and culture becomes stagnant.

4. Death: In the death stage, the civilization collapses and is replaced by a new civilization.

Spengler's Views on Civilization

Spengler believed that all civilizations are unique and cannot be compared to one another. He argued that each civilization has its own internal logic and must be understood on its own terms. Spengler also believed that civilizations are not equal in value and that some are more significant than others.

Spengler's cyclical theory of social change was influential in the early 20th century, but it has been criticized for its deterministic and pessimistic view of history. Critics argue that civilizations do not necessarily follow a predetermined path and that human agency and creativity can shape the course of history.