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Abstract
This text analyzes the role of rationality and science in modern society and its limits on human action. Karl Marx argues that rationality, both in scientific knowledge and practice, is a key element to social change and progress, highlighting the relation between knowledge and power. Max Weber characterizes modernity in terms of rationalization which, although it fosters an optimal social action, it limits freedom and individual creativity due to bureaucratization. Weber also discriminates technical rationalization of subjective rationalization, pointing at the limits of scientific rationalization. Meanwhile, Norbert Elias considers civilization as the result of human interactions and not as a product of pure rationality. He maintains that science must point at what is possible, leaving the responsibility of decisions in the hands of the individual. He also warns against the illusion that social sciences can exempt the individual from his or her responsibility. This analysis provides a critical comprehension on how rationality and science influence social development and individual autonomy.
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