A government is an institution that holds a monopoly on the legitimate use of violence.
Max WeberRead
Capitalism may even be identical with the restraint, or at least a rational tempering, of this irrational impulse. But capitalism is identical with the restraint, or at least a rational tempering, of this irrational impulse. But capitalism is identical with the pursuit of profit, and forever renewed profit, by means of continuous, rational, capitalistic enterprise.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on capitalism as a system that balances irrational desires with rational enterprise focused on profit.
Max Weber discusses capitalism as a dualistic force where on one hand, it restrains irrational impulses and on the other, it fosters the continuous pursuit of profit through rational enterprise. This relationship between restraint and the drive for profit highlights capitalism's complex nature, suggesting it is both a necessary regulatory mechanism and an aggressive promoter of individual gain.
Themes
CapitalismProfitEnterpriseRationalImpulse
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion on economic systems at a university seminar.
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The fate of our times is characterized by rationalization and intellectualization and, above all, by the 'disenchantment of the world.' Precisely the ultimate and most sublime values have retreated from public life either into the transcendental realm of mystic life or into the brotherliness of direct and personal human relations. It is not accidental that our greatest art is intimate and not monumental.
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