Final answer:
Mannheim's Theory of Generations is based on a linear pattern of societal development, with generations shaped by historical and social contexts. Strauss-Howe's Generational Theory suggests a cyclical pattern, with predetermined archetypical behaviors recurring throughout history. The main difference lies in the 'Cyclical vs. linear pattern' of generational change.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mannheim's Theory of Generations and Strauss-Howe's Generational Theory offer differing perspectives on how generations are shaped and how they interact with society. Mannheim's approach primarily focuses on how generations form their consciousness through shared historical and social experiences, translating more into a more linear pattern of societal development. He emphasizes the impact of significant social and historical changes on the generational cohorts, suggesting that people similarly aged are shaped into a social generation through their specific socio-historical context.
On the other hand, Strauss-Howe's theory presents a cyclical pattern, proposing that generations alternate between four archetypical behaviors throughout history: the Prophet, Nomad, Hero, and Artist. This repetition of roles asserts a predictable cycle of generational characteristics and societal events. Instead of focusing on external events shaping generations in a linear fashion, this theory emphasizes a recurring generational rhythm that affects society collectively.
In regard to the option provided in the question, Mannheim's and Strauss-Howe's theories differ most clearly in 'C) Cyclical vs. linear pattern' of generational change. While Mannheim sees generational change as a linear response to social and historical events, Strauss-Howe's approach is based on a cyclical pattern where generations follow a set sequence of behavioral archetypes, which in turn shape society.