Synopses & Reviews
This book explores thematic parallels between Max Weber's theory of the rationalisation and disenchantment of the modern world, and the critiques of contemporary culture developed by Lyotard, Foucault and Baudrillard. It is suggested that these three theorists, associated with poststructuralism and postmodernism, respond to Weber's account of the rise, nature, and trajectory of modern culture by pursuing highly imaginative and coherent strategies of affirmation and re-enchantment. Examining the work of these three key thinkers in this way casts new light on Weber's sociology of rationalisation and his theory of the crisis of modernity.
Review
"Gane's book raises important questions, and fleshes out the strengths and limits of Weber's ideas in a way that has not been possible within the framework of traditional readings."--Isher-Paul Sahni,
Journal of Classical Sociology
Synopsis
This book explores thematic parallels between Max Weber's theory of the rationalisation and disenchantment of the modern world, and the critiques of contemporary culture developed by Lyotard, Foucault and Baudrillard. It is suggested that these three theorists, associated with poststructuralism and postmodernism, respond to Weber's account of the rise, nature, and trajectory of modern culture by pursuing highly imaginative and coherent strategies of affirmation and re-enchantment. Examining the work of these three key thinkers in this way casts new light on Weber's sociology of rationalisation and his theory of the crisis of modernity.
Synopsis
This book explores the contemporary nature of Max Weber's work by looking in detail at his key concepts of rationalization and disenchantment. Thematic parallels are drawn between Weber's rationalization thesis and the critiques of contemporary culture developed by Jean-Francois Lyotard, Michel Foucault and Jean Baudrillard.
About the Author
Nicholas Gane is Lecturer in Sociology, City University, London.
Table of Contents
Introduction * PART I: MAX WEBER'S THEORY AND CRITIQUE OF RATIONALIZATION * Rationalization and Disenchantment, I: From the Origins of Religion to the Death of God * Rationalization and Disenchantment, II: The Differentiation and De-differentiation of Modern Culture * The Value of Instrumental Reason: 'Science as a Vocation' * The Ethical Irrationality of the World: 'Politics as a Vocation' * PART II: WEBER AND POSTMODERN THEORY: LYOTARD, FOUCAULT AND BAUDRILLARD * Intermediate Reflection * Weber, Lyotard and the Aesthetic Sphere * Weber, Foucault and the Political Sphere * Weber, Baudrillard and the Erotic Sphere * Conclusion * Notes * Bibliography