Analyzing the Processes of Rationalization by Max Weber - Assignment Example

Notably, Weber conceived sociology as a science with a view of interpreting and understanding social conduct.3 In addressing the substance of sociology, he focused on rationalization as the most general element in the philosophy of history and the constitutive element of modern western society.

He contends that strict systematic forms of thought, which characterize law, are fundamental to rational jurisprudence. Notably, Weber measured rationalization by assessing the extent to which ideas gain systematic coherence and consistency as well as by assessing the displacement of magical elements of thoughts.5 Moreover, he classifies rationalization into value rationality and purpose rationality. While value rationality focuses on intrinsic value only, purpose rationality focuses on the consequences of an action.

6 Furthermore, Weber analyzed the concept of domination and established that the emergence of rational societies is critically dependent on the exercise of domination.7 Weber’s central theme of the rationalization process moves from magicians to priests who seek to protect their positions using systematic religious beliefs.8 He also believed that capitalism is the highest level of rationality in economic behavior and established that the concepts of economic rationality conflict.9 Ultimately, he asserts that the religious roots of modern capitalism led to utilitarianism, which further led to materialism.

10Analyzing the Study of Public Administration: Origins, Development, NatureThis chapter reckons that there has been immense growth in public administration where the emergence of a wide range of generic and specialized journals, the increasing number of public administration programs, and a large number of students, graduates, scholars, and consultants in public administration confirms this assertion.11 Moreover, there has been independence and specialization in this field. In addressing public administration, the chapter relies on contributions from influential scholars coming from diverse fields.

These authors address the salient issues in public administration, which include the relationship between private and public administration and the question as to whether a science of public administration is attainable.12 The authors give a divided opinion on the two issues, which relates to the opinions in public administration. Indeed, public administration cannot hold its subject matter. 13 The chapter reckons that controversies on the definition and nature of public administration persist where scholars wonder whether it is a branch of political science, science, an extension of private management practices, and whether public administrators should participate in politics.

14 As such, the search for the identity of public administration has been there since the 1940s.15 The chapter establishes the problematic relationship between public administration and political science although some scholars from the US and other European countries are trying to address this problem. While this concept became organizationally distinct in various countries, it maintained a close relationship with political science. This chapter confirms that public administration is born from government and will continue to apply in governments despite the numerous challenges it faces. Moreover, we can expect public administration to start using principles of organizational management, legal environment, IT, and gendered knowledge, and focusing on integrity and ethics.