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Max Weber

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Abstract

This chapter will consider Weber’s interpretive sociology and his methodological individualism. The text clarifies the difference between “value freedom,” “value judgment,” and “reference to values.” After reconstructing Weber’s theory of social action, it will delve into Weber’s theory of causality and the importance of the ideal type in causal imputation. The text will explore Weber’s thesis on the origin of the spirit of modern capitalism and the types of rationality.

The text will also focus on the three types of legitimate authority. Particular attention will be devoted to the charismatic succession phenomenon.

Weber’s theory of social stratification will also be the object of an in-depth analysis.

The final section will investigate how Weber’s thinking was influenced by political nationalism.

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  1. Department of Political Science, Luiss University of Rome, Rome, Roma, Italy

    Alessandro Orsini

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Orsini, A. (2024). Max Weber. In: Sociological Theory. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-52539-1_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-52539-1_6

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