The Vocation Of Reason: Studies In Critical Theory And Social Science In The Age Of Max Weber (international Studies In Sociology And Social Anthropology)

Wilson (York U., Toronto) collects ten journal articles and book chapters published between 1976 and 2004 on the thought, influence, and milieu of American philosopher Weber (1864-1920). Some consider the limits of rationality by discussing such topics as critical theory in American from 1938 to 1978 as a case of intellectual innovation and its rec "This book addresses, and at the same time reflects, the impact of Max Weber on both the social sciences and on critical theory's critique of the social sciences. Weber's conception of 'vocation' is a guiding thread unifying concerns about the nature, scope and limits of theoretical thinking among social scientists, whether supportive or critical of Weber. Not surprisingly, the source of many of these concerns, whether intended or unintended, biographical or situational, is the ambiguous legacy of Weber himself. Wilson's interrogation of Weber's thought in articles and essays over the past 30 years, supplemented by Kemple's insights, makes a strong case for the claim that we do indeed live in 'the age of Weber'."--Jacket

This book addresses, and at the same time reflects, the impact of Max Weber on both the social sciences and on critical theory’s critique of the social sciences. Weber’s conception of ‘vocation’ is a guiding thread unifying concerns about the nature, scope and limits of theoretical thinking among social scientists, whether supportive or critical of Weber. Not surprisingly, the source of many of these concerns, whether intended or unintended, biographical or situational, is the ambiguous legacy of Weber himself. Wilson’s interrogation of Weber’s thought in articles and essays over the past 30 years, supplemented by Kemple’s insights, makes a strong case for the claim that we do indeed live in ‘the age of Weber’.