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

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.