Similarities Between Marx And Weber

Both Marx and Weber have contributed an important insight into the understanding of society and classical sociology. Their work can be compared similarly, with both theorists recognizing the exploitative nature of capitalism and a definition that equates to the rational process of accumulation of wealth for reinvestment. However, it is difficult to ignore the striking differences between the two; this is hardly surprising due to Marx’s economic approach whereas Weber takes a more sociological and cultural approach. However, it is crucial to not divide these theorists using clear-cut borders of the economic versus cultural approach or likewise, the macro structure-shaping society vs the micro action theory approach. What should be recognized, is that both theorists attempt to understand the connections between modern capitalism and specific historical circumstances. For Marx, capitalism is defined as the ownership of the means of production and private property. The history of class struggle becomes central to his theory; he describes the polarization …show more content…
From this viewpoint, he differs from Marx who argued that the main institutions in society such as religion, the media and education control the proletariat and it is the ruling class that run these institutions. This view is much more deterministic than Weber’s view who emphasizes the role of the individual. In summation of the points above, It is quite clear that both Karl Marx and Max Weber are two very different theorists who had conflicting ideas about capitalism and different ways in addressing this social category. However, what should be noted is that both theorists aim to contextualize the origins of modern capitalism. What is different however, is that Weber argues that it is culture that catalyzes economic conditions whereas Marx writes that economic conditions manifest themselves in society and