Readings Questions for Weber I:
"Objectivity in Social Science"
1. Explain how Weber's methodology defines what it means to be "objective" in sociological research, using his concept of "ideal type." In your own words, what does Weber mean by "objectivity" and "ideal type?" Give an example of an ideal type, and explain how it fits Weber's definition.
2. What are the major differences in how Weber, Durkheim, and Marx approach the study of sociology? (How is each theorist's "method" a distinct way of doing sociology?)
"Basic Sociological Terms"
3. How does Weber define sociological study-- what is it? Explain the concept of "verstehen" in your own words. How and why is "verstehen" essential to Weber's sociological method? Give an example of how you could use "verstehen"-- Briefly describe a topic or issue you want to examine in sociology and explain how you would approach the questions that interest you using the concept of "verstehen."
4. What are the four types of social action, according to Weber? Which two are the most important, and how are these types of action transforming in modern life? Give your own example of a social action that would fit into each of Weber's categories.
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