Weber - Rationalization

 

Weber: Rationalization. Questions and Debate

1. Explain the notion of Bureaucracy. Why does Weber 

relate it to Dehumanization and Alienation?

2. Explain the notion of Instrumental rationality. 

3. Explain the notion of Substantive rationality. Why does 

Weber speak about the tension between instrumental 

rationality and Substantial rationality?

4. Explain the Weberian notion of Iron cage. Do you 

perceive an iron cage around yourself?

5. What is Economic Rationalization?

6. What is the Weberian Cultural shift? 

7. How do these concepts relate to political 

structures, according to Weber?

Written Exam - Answer Key - Textbook

 Some words about the Answer Key. 

Ethnocentrism vs. Xenocentrism

Ethnocentrism vs. Xenocentrism Debate:

1. Should one’s own culture always be viewed as superior?

2. Can xenocentrism help foster multiculturalism?

3. How do these two concepts affect international 

experiences, especially for those living abroad?

4. How can we develop a balance of appreciation for 

one’s own culture and others?

Multiculturalism in Paris

Multiculturalism in a global city. 

1. Please share one advantage and one challenge of living 

in a multicultural society, based on your 

experiences in Paris. 

2. How does Paris, as a multicultural city, accommodate 

different cultures?

3. Have you noticed examples of cultural integration, or 

do people tend to stay within their own cultural groups?

Culture - Debates.

The Debate on Culture, Subculture, and Counter-Culture:

1. How does culture shape our identity and worldview?

2. To what extent do cultural norms and values influence 

behavior in different societies?

3. Discuss how globalization has impacted cultural 

diversity. Has it led to cultural homogenization or 

greater appreciation for cultural differences?

Subculture:

1. What role do subcultures play in expressing 

individuality and identity in a larger society?

2. How do subcultures like goth, hip-hop, or skater 

communities challenge or reinforce mainstream 

cultural values?

3. Can subcultures exist without being commodified 

by mainstream society? Discuss with examples.

Counterculture:

1. How do countercultures, such as the 1960s hippie 

movement, seek to challenge and change dominant 

social norms?

2. Are modern countercultures, such as environmental 

or anti-consumerist movements, as influential as past 

ones?

3. What role do technology and social media play in the 

formation and spread of countercultures today?

America Lost

 

The Decline of American Manufacturing