What is rationalization, and how does it work in some of the various "spheres" of the modern world? Why does Weber think there is a crisis of "meaning" in the modern rationalized world? Does Weber believe that "science", the systematic pursuit of knowledge, can provide an answer to the crisis? Does he propose any other solutions or changes of attitude to respond to this crisis?

 

Rationalization as indicated by Weber is a concept or a process where modern society has increasingly become concerned with efficiency and predictability of trying to attain maximum results with minimal efforts. Rationalization works in some of the various "spheres" of the modern world by trying to replace traditions, values, and emotions as reasons for behavior in society with ideas based on rationality and reason.

Weber thinks there is a crisis of "meaning" in the modern rationalized world as secularization of the issues of social stratification, power, politics, and modernity have become the regular norm of defining human behavior and institutions.

Weber believes that "science", the systematic pursuit of knowledge, can provide an answer to the crisis as it attempts to create an interpretive understanding of social actions so that is course and effects can be arrived at through a causal explanation.

Weber proposes the balance of labor, land, capital, or commodity any other solutions or changes of attitude to respond to this crisis where social capital will be enhanced. Consequently, the eradication of bureaucracy and classism will be an integral factor of ensuring effectiveness and efficiency to the crisis.