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Max Weber’s Methodology: The Method of Falsification Applied to Text Interpretations

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ABSTRACT
Text interpretations are usually leading to ambiguous results. This is especially the case for the interpretation of Max Weber’s methodology. I discuss Thomas Burger’s interpretation that Weber applied Rickert’s methodology and that he never developed his own standpoint regarding the methodological problems. In contrast to this view, I propose an alternative interpretation based on the Methodenstreitin economics and the philosophies of Kant and Rickert. In my opinion Weber offered a very unique solution to an old philosophical problem, which resulted in a complete break with the Platonic and Aristotelian tradition. His solution is what I call the postulate of internal consistency (a logical consistent application of an arbitrary scheme of interpretation). I will use Popper’s method of deductive falsification to decide if Burger’s or my interpretation produces fewer contradictions.
Cite this paper
Etzrodt, C. (2014) Max Weber’s Methodology: The Method of Falsification Applied to Text Interpretations. Open Journal of Philosophy, 4, 345-359. doi: 10.4236/ojpp.2014.43038.
 
References
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