Abstract
The aim of this essay is to contrast alternative, yet related, theories of historical development: historical materialism, Parsonian modernization theory, Habermasian social evolution. These theoretical alternatives are discussed in connection with the criteria they provide for evaluating social conflict and in relation to contemporary social movements. In this connection, an alternative `action' perspective is discussed. In addition, the role of intellectuals in formulating and periodizing historical development, and the claims they put forward regarding social movements, are related to the alternative theoretical positions outlined.
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