MAX WEBER:An Intellectual Biography

Book Details

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Author: Fritz Ringer

• Language: English

• Edition: 2018

• ISBN: 9788131609682

• Pages: 318

• Cover: Hardcover

About the Book
Max Weber was one of the most influential and creative intellectual figures of the twentieth century. His contributions to social theory and the methodology of social sciences continue to shape academic discourse today. In this comprehensive work, Fritz Ringer offers the first extensive introduction to Weber’s thought for both students and newcomers, placing him within the historical context of his time.

Weber’s ideas, particularly his analysis of bureaucracy, capitalism, and modern occupational life, are explored with depth. His critique of bureaucracy as both an obstacle to cultural vitality and an unavoidable part of rational organizational structures offers a nuanced view of modern society. Ringer also examines Weber’s famous work on the Protestant ethic, uncovering its psychological foundations and implications for capitalist development.

This book traces Weber’s intellectual journey, from his contributions to sociology and his views on comparative religion to his thoughts on history, capitalism, socialism, and bureaucracy. It also explores his views on education, knowledge, and vocation, and emphasizes his belief in democracy, liberalism, and human rights, which continue to be vital in contemporary society.

Ringer highlights Weber’s intellectual legacy, offering readers a clearer understanding of the limits of scholarly research and the ongoing relevance of his insights. This book serves as a concise and insightful intellectual biography of Max Weber, providing valuable context to his social theories and their application in today’s world.

Contents

• Introduction

• 1. A Man in His Time

• 2. Weber’s Politics

• 3. Weber’s Methodology

• 4. The Protestant Ethic

• 5. Weber’s Comparative Sociology of Religion

• 6. From History to Sociology

• 7. The City, Capitalism, Socialism, and Bureaucracy

• 8. Education, Knowledge, and Vocation

• Conclusion: A Man for Our Time

About the Author
Fritz Ringer is the Mellon Professor of History Emeritus at the University of Pittsburgh. He is widely recognized for his work on the social history of knowledge and his studies of modern educational systems. Ringer is the author of several influential books, including The Decline of the German Mandarins and Max Weber’s Methodology. His scholarly work has had a lasting impact on the fields of history, sociology, and educational theory.