Max Weber and Rationalization

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to Max Weber's sociological theories and the process of rationalization.

Rationalization

The process of replacing tradition and magical belief by methodical calculation and predictability.

Verstehen

Comprehensive understanding of the subjective meaning individuals give to their actions in sociology.

Disenchantment of the World

The progressive expulsion of magic, myth, and religion due to the rise of science and rational calculation.

Ideal Type

A mental construction or conceptual tool used in sociology to measure and compare real phenomena against a purer model.

Social Action

Human behavior to which the acting individual attaches subjective meaning, oriented in relation to others.

Instrumental Rationality

Action oriented toward calculation to achieve an objective with maximum efficiency.

Value Rationality

Methodical action to fulfill an unconditional value, ignoring costs and practical consequences.

Status Group

A social category defined by social honor and lifestyle, which is distinct from economic class.

Legitimacy

The shared belief that justifies and gives validity to authority and domination in a social context.

Political Vocation

The ethical dilemma faced by politicians between passion for a cause and the responsibility for consequences.

Iron Cage

A metaphor for the capitalist and bureaucratic system that imposes efficiency and methodical calculation at the cost of individual meaning.

Ethic of Conviction

Action based on absolute fidelity to a value or principle, without concern for consequences.

Ethic of Responsibility

Action based on rational calculation of probable consequences, where the politician is accountable for the results.

Beruf

The concept of work as a calling or vocation, elevated to a divine duty in Weber's analysis of capitalism.

Elective Affinity

The relationship between the 'Spirit of Capitalism' and 'Inner-Worldly Asceticism' in Protestantism, promoting disciplined work.

Bureaucracy

An organization of power based on strictly rational and impersonal rules, aiming for maximum efficiency.

Social Stratification

A theory by Weber that explains social inequality through three autonomous orders of power: Class, Status Groups, and Parties.