Max Weber's comparative-historical sociology today: major themes, mode of causal analysis, and applications

Abstract

Contents: Introduction Part I Reconstructing Major Themes: Introduction Max Weber's types of rationality: cornerstones for the analysis of Rationalization processes in history Should the 'dynamic autonomy' of ideas matter to sociologists? Max Weber on the origin of other-worldly salvation religions and the constitution of groups in American society today The past and present influence of world views: Max Weber on a neglected sociological concept. Part II Weber's Mode of Causal Analysis: Introduction The perpetual and tight interweaving of past and present in Max Weber's sociology Macro comparisons: precautions, possibilities, achievements and limitations The theoretical framework and causal methodology. Part III Reconstructing Significant Developments from Weber's Oeuvre: the Rise and Expansion of Confucianism, the Caste System, and Monotheism: Introduction The rise and expansion of Confucianism in China The rise and expansion of the caste system in India The rise and expansion of monotheism in ancient Israel. Part IV Utilizing Weber I: the Importance of Deep Culture: Introduction: The legacies of ascetic Protestantism and American uniqueness: the political culture of the United States The cultural foundations of modern citizenship. Part V Utilizing Weber II: Multi-Causal and Contextual-Conjectural Analysis: Introduction The origin and expansion of Kulturpessimismus: the relationship between public and private spheres in early 20th-century Germany Culture and the location of work in contemporary Western Germany: a Weberian configurational and comparative analysis. Part VI Conclusion: Bringing Weber Back In: Appendices References Index.