Revising Weberian Theory of Rationalisation from the Perspective of Critical Phenomenology

SZALÓ, Csaba. Revising Weberian Theory of Rationalisation from the Perspective of Critical Phenomenology. In Theoretical and Methodological Challenges for Humanities, Social and Cultural Sciences, Facing the Multiple Crises in Europe, International Conference, University of Münster, 6-8. June 2024. 2024.

Basic information

• Original name: Revising Weberian Theory of Rationalisation from the Perspective of Critical Phenomenology
• Name (in English): Revising Weberian Theory of Rationalisation from the Perspective of Critical Phenomenology
• Authors: SZALÓ, Csaba.
• Edition: Theoretical and Methodological Challenges for Humanities, Social and Cultural Sciences, Facing the Multiple Crises in Europe, International Conference, University of Münster, 6-8. June 2024, 2024.

Other information

• Type of outcome: Presentations at conferences
• Confidentiality degree: is not subject to a state or trade secret
• Keywords in English: ungovernable irrationality; standpoint epistemology; embodied experience; authority
• Tags: International impact, Reviewed

Abstract

Max Weber's theory of rationalisation, while highlighting the comprehensive de-mystifying and intellectualising of the world, also acknowledged its limitations. He identified islands of formal rationality as emerging amidst persistent and _ungovernable irrationality_. This paper explores how critical theory built upon Weber's ideas, often aiming to complete the rationalisation process and eliminate irrationality in political and economic spheres. However, this interpretive strategy oriented to correct the Weberian focus on the constitution of authority by force of knowledge by insisting on the authority of rationalised knowledge might overlook its _standpoint of observers_. The paper proposes revisiting critical theory's relationship to phenomenology, emphasising _embodied experience_ as a potential alternative. By investigating how individuals encounter and make sense of the world around them, phenomenology can offer a more nuanced understanding of _authority_ and the _limits of rationalisation_. It can complement the observer's narrative of societal change with the richness of _lived experience_, providing a deeper understanding of how individuals navigate the tensions between rationalisation and its "irrational" residues.

Abstract (in English)

Max Weber's theory of rationalisation, while highlighting the comprehensive de-mystifying and intellectualising of the world, also acknowledged its limitations. He identified islands of formal rationality as emerging amidst persistent and _ungovernable irrationality_. This paper explores how critical theory built upon Weber's ideas, often aiming to complete the rationalisation process and eliminate irrationality in political and economic spheres. However, this interpretive strategy oriented to correct the Weberian focus on the constitution of authority by force of knowledge by insisting on the authority of rationalised knowledge might overlook its _standpoint of observers_. The paper proposes revisiting critical theory's relationship to phenomenology, emphasising _embodied experience_ as a potential alternative. By investigating how individuals encounter and make sense of the world around them, phenomenology can offer a more nuanced understanding of _authority_ and the _limits of rationalisation_. It can complement the observer's narrative of societal change with the richness of _lived experience_, providing a deeper understanding of how individuals navigate the tensions between rationalisation and its "irrational" residues.

Links

• MUNI/A/1593/2023, interní kód MU: Name: Society in times of crisis: The legitimacy crisis of contemporary sciences

Investor: Masaryk University, Society in times of crisis: The legitimacy crisis of contemporary sciences