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Max Weber had a challenging upbringing in a household with split values of church and

state, which later influenced his theories. Weber's exceptional education included law, history,

and social sciences majors. He advocated a non-scientific approach to studying society. He was

concerned about the social problems societies were facing and believed that to comprehend a

culture, one needed to live in it for at least six months to a year and document it. By doing so,

one could determine the needs of that society.

Although his methods, Verstehen, for better understanding society by putting oneself in

another's shoes and placing oneself in society were controversial, they are still used today. The

Verstehen method was criticized because research could have multiple interpretations, depending

on the researcher. However, it was still used because the interpreter could gain more knowledge

of the subject and develop a different interpretation than their initial one. It could also be used as

a base for a hypothesis. There was also controversy about placing oneself in society because

cultural differences can make it difficult for each culture to comprehend the other, leading to

subjective interpretations. Thus, he recommended immersing oneself in a culture for at least six

months.

Weber's examination of bureaucracy was another significant contribution. He believed it

was the most efficient organization for achieving goals in modern society, characterized by

hierarchical structures, rules, and regulations designed to promote efficiency and rationality. In

the social welfare field, this suggests that everyone who needs assistance is treated equally by

following the rules and regulations. These theories gained acceptance from the late 1800s to the

1920s and are still used today by welfare offices, sociologists, and social workers in the 21st

century.
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Max Weber was born on April 21, 1864, in Erfurt, Germany, into a family emphasizing

education and intellectual pursuits. His father, Max Weber Sr., was a prominent politician and

civil servant, while his mother, Helene Weber, was a devout Calvinist. This divide between his

mother, a devout Puritan, and his father, an aspiring politician, made Weber's life difficult.

Eventually, the division of values and principles between his mother and father turned his father

into an authoritarian, and he demanded obedience from his wife and eight children. The conflict

and tension in his household between individual and social values influenced his work and

contributions to sociology.

Max Weber, the eldest of his eight siblings, had a difficult childhood marked by a

rigorous education in classical languages, literature, mathematics, and natural sciences. After

completing his secondary education, Weber enrolled at the University of Heidelberg, pursuing a

triple major in law, economics, and history. It was during this time that Weber's interest in

sociology was sparked as he received an assignment from the Verein für Sozialpolitik, the

leading social science association during the time of Gustav Schmoller's leadership (Max Weber

(Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy), 2022).

The assignment tasked Weber with producing a comprehensive study on the displacement

of German agrarian workers in East Prussia by Polish migrant laborers, an issue with significant

political and economic implications. The East Elbian Report that Weber produced generated

mixed reactions from the public, but it played a pivotal role in his career. The report's high

quality earned Weber recognition, and he was appointed to a position in Freiburg in 1894,

providing him with opportunities to gain invaluable experience and establish himself as an expert

in the field of sociology (Max Weber (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy), 2022).

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In 1896, two years after his appointment in Freiburg, Weber received an offer for a

prestigious professorship in political economy at Heidelberg. It was a turning point in his career,

solidifying his status as a leading figure in sociology and allowing him to continue pursuing his

research interests. While at Heidelberg, Weber developed vital concepts that would later become

central to his work, such as the importance of social structures and institutions in shaping human

behavior.

After completing his doctoral studies, Weber worked as a lawyer and legal scholar for

several years before joining the University of Freiburg as a professor of economics. He continued

exploring various academic disciplines, including philosophy, sociology, and political science.

Weber's early life and education, coupled with his deep interest in the workings of society and

politics, played a significant role in shaping his intellectual development and approach to

scholarship.

Weber is known for his non-scientific approach to studying society and its behavior.

Weber believed that it was essential to immerse oneself in a culture for an extended period, at

least six months, to gain an accurate understanding of its values, norms, and beliefs (Graham,

n.d.). This approach, known as empathetic understanding, or Verstehen, emphasizes the need for

researchers to appreciate the subjective experiences of the people they study.

Weber's theory encompasses society but can also be applied at an individualistic level,

called "person in environment." This perspective recognizes that an individual's behavior can

only be understood adequately by considering the various aspects of that individual's

environment. These environmental factors may include social, political, familial, temporal,

spiritual, economic, and physical characteristics. Thus, the person-in-environment perspective

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recognizes that individuals are part of a more extensive socio-cultural system and that their

environment influences their behavior.

According to Kondrat (2015), the person-in-environment perspective provides a more

comprehensive framework for assessing an individual's problems and strengths than an approach

solely focused on changing an individual's behavior or psyche. By considering the various

aspects of an individual's environment, practitioners can better understand the root causes of

their problems and develop more effective interventions. Moreover, this perspective recognizes

the importance of a holistic approach to care, emphasizing the need to address individuals'

physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs rather than just treating the symptoms; the person

is looked at as a whole, and the root of the problem is fixed.

Max Weber's contributions to sociology are of great importance for several reasons.

Firstly, his ideas have significantly impacted the field of social sciences. Weber's emphasis on the

significance of culture, history, and personal perception in comprehending human behavior has

profoundly influenced the emergence of various sociological theories. In particular, Weber's

contributions have been particularly impactful in studying the role of culture and historical

context in shaping social structures and individual behavior. Learning Weber's theories is crucial

for understanding the complex social dynamics that shape our world today.

Secondly, while it is challenging to determine the exact factors that influenced Weber's

interest in this topic, it is possible that his parents played a role. Weber's mother, Helene Weber,

was a devout Puritan who instilled a strong sense of discipline and self-control in her children.

Weber's father, Max Weber Sr., was a successful lawyer, politician, and member of the National

Liberal Party. His father's political views may have influenced his son's interest in the

relationship between religion and politics.

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Thirdly, Weber's approach to social research, Verstehen, which emphasizes the need for

researchers to understand the subjective experiences of the people they study, has significant

implications for qualitative research methods. He once said: "to identify a concrete 'motive' or

complex of motives' reproducible in inner experience', a motive to which we can attribute the

conduct in question with a degree of precision that is dependent upon our source material. In

other words because of its susceptibility to a meaningful 'interpretation'… individual conduct is

in principle intrinsically less 'irrational' than then individual natural event" (ObjectPetitU,

2021).

Max Weber's approach, which emphasizes the importance of understanding social

phenomena from an individual's viewpoint, has significantly influenced various fields. In

particular, his ideas have profoundly impacted qualitative research methods like phenomenology

and hermeneutics, which aim to explore the meaning behind human experiences and how they

shape our understanding of the world. Furthermore, Weber's insights have also contributed to the

development of the art and science of biblical interpretation, which seeks to understand the

Bible's message in the context of its historical and cultural background. Today, hermeneutics can

be found nationwide in churches as pastors interpret the Bible for their congregation.

His work was influenced by several critical intellectual figures, including the German

philosopher Immanuel Kant, the sociologist and economist Émile Durkheim, and the philosopher

Friedrich Nietzsche. These thinkers played a significant role in shaping Weber's views on

society's nature and the individual's role within it.

For instance, Weber was influenced by Kant's ideas about the importance of reason and

morality in human affairs and Durkheim's work on social solidarity and the division of labor. On
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the other hand, Nietzsche's philosophy helped Weber develop his ideas about the role of values

and culture in shaping human behavior.

Weber's travels to the United States also shaped his ideas about modern society. He

interacted with American social scientists during his visit to the country, particularly at the

University of Chicago. He gained a deeper understanding of the role of bureaucracy,

rationalization, and expertise in modern society. Weber developed a comprehensive and nuanced

understanding of the world and its workings through his travels and interactions.

Weber applied his profound understanding of sociology to analyze modern societies'

social, political, and economic structures. In his influential work, Weber presented a detailed

analysis of the bureaucratic organization of modern societies, and his concepts of authority,

power, and social action have had a lasting impact on the field of sociology. His ideas on the role

of the state, the nature of social stratification, and the relationship between religion and

capitalism have also contributed to shaping modern social science. Today, scholars continue

drawing on Weber's insights to understand contemporary societies' complexities better.

Weber argued that the rationalization of society was a driving force behind the

development of modern society. This involved the application of scientific and objective

methods to various aspects of life, including law, politics, economics, and religion. According to

Weber, rationalization transformed traditional and irrational thinking into objective and scientific

methods better suited to modern society's demands.

One of Weber's most significant contributions was his examination of bureaucracy, which

he viewed as the most efficient organization for achieving goals in modern society. He believed

bureaucracy was characterized by hierarchical structures, rules, and regulations designed to

promote efficiency and rationality. In this way, bureaucracy was considered an ideal way of
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organizing the modern state and economy. In the United States, while it may be frustrating at

times, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) must be bureaucratic to keep the roads safe,

and this involves a driving test before licensure and requiring insurance before driving on the

road. At the University level, bureaucracy is found in the conduct of the students and the rules

and regulations of each department (Poling & Norton, 2021).

The analysis of Max Weber on the Protestant work ethic is widely believed to have

significantly influenced the development of modern capitalism and society as we know it today.

The Protestant work ethic is a set of principles emphasizing discipline, hard work, and frugality

as the foundational values for achieving success and salvation. Weber argued that this belief

system encouraged people to work hard, save money, and invest in their futures, ultimately

paving the way for the development of capitalism and modern economic systems. This

phenomenon can be observed on the East Coast, where commuters travel to work on trains and

subways, and on the West Coast, where people spend hours in traffic jams in cities like Seattle

and Los Angeles. Retirement programs such as 401K's and 403B's also showcase the influence

of the Protestant work ethic.

Weber's ideas are fascinating and continue to influence modern social sciences. His

studies on bureaucracy, rationalization, and the Protestant work ethic provide critical insights

into modern societies' development and challenges. His concept of bureaucracy is particularly

noteworthy, as he viewed it as a rational system for organizing complex social structures. His

idea of rationalization describes how society becomes more standardized, efficient, and

predictable. Furthermore, his analysis of the Protestant work ethic highlights the role of religion

in shaping economic behavior.

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There has been controversy over both the Verstehen approach and Weber's methodology.

One of the main criticisms of the Verstehen approach is that it needs a scientific approach. The

method relies heavily on the schema in which the observer attributes their knowledge to a

particular situation. This can lead to a closed-minded analysis of the case. However, if an

open-minded observer observes the same problem, the knowledge of the matter will likely grow,

altering the interpretation.

The Verstehen approach, also known as the interpretive approach, is a methodology that

emphasizes the importance of understanding the meanings and intentions behind human actions

and behaviors. It is commonly used in social sciences, mainly sociological research, to gain

insight into individuals' and groups' subjective experiences and perspectives.

The Verstehen approach has been a subject of debate in social science research. Critics of

this approach believe it needs to be more scientific because it relies heavily on the observer's

subjective interpretation, which can be influenced by their biases, experiences, and perspectives.

This can lead to a limited or inaccurate understanding of the situation.

Additionally, the Verstehen approach may not be replicable because it is challenging to

standardize the interpretation of subjective experiences across different observers. Despite these

criticisms, supporters of the Verstehen approach argue that it is a valuable methodology for

understanding human behavior's complex and nuanced nature. This process enables researchers

to comprehend individuals' and groups' unique perspectives and experiences, which cannot be

captured through quantitative methods alone.

On the other hand, Weber's approach to social science research involves

● observing and analyzing social phenomena,

● formulating a hypothesis that explains the observed patterns,

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● testing the hypothesis through empirical research, and

● refining it based on the findings to develop a theory.

However, this methodology has faced criticisms that cultural differences can make it difficult for

each culture to comprehend the other, which can result in subjective interpretation. To address

this challenge, Weber suggested that researchers spend at least six months conducting their

studies to ensure accurate performance.

In the context of Weber's theory, immersion programs benefit students as they provide an

opportunity to learn a new language, explore different cultures, and gain a deeper understanding

of them. These programs offer a unique first-hand experience to interact with people from

diverse cultures and learn about their traditions, customs, and history. By doing so, students can

better understand and appreciate diversity, enhancing their cross-cultural communication skills.

According to a participant in the community service program offered by Go Overseas, "I learned

the language, culture, and history not just through lectures and class but also through firsthand

experiences! The homestay is one of the most amazing parts of the trip, making you feel like you

belong." -- Maggie (Giolando, 2021).

Both the Verstehen approach and Weber's methodology have their strengths and

limitations. Although subjective interpretation is possible, the systematic process of these

methodologies can help minimize biases. Similarly, immersion programs can promote

intercultural awareness and empathy, contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious world.

Even though it is a controversial approach, the Verstehen method is still widely used in

the 21st century. This method is commonly used in job interviews, where the interviewer asks

candidates about their experiences and feelings to understand their motivations and actions

better. It falls under the umbrella of Industrial-Organizational Psychology, which aims to create
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employee selection assessments using screening tests to determine whether job applicants are

qualified for a particular position.

Combining the qualitative data obtained through this method with traditional quantitative

data approaches can create a policy incorporating insider and outsider perspectives. For instance,

in the hiring process, this approach can help evaluate how a candidate would fit in with their

potential colleagues. By combining the perspectives of people within the hiring department with

those of the candidate, a more comprehensive understanding of the situation can be achieved.

This method can help identify potential sources of conflict and assist in making more informed

hiring decisions. However, evaluating whether a candidate will fit in with the team in just 45

minutes can be challenging, as I have experienced during job interviews with the State of

Nevada.

One of the strengths of the Verstehen method is that it allows researchers to gain a deeper

understanding of the social and cultural contexts in which individuals live and work. This

approach can help identify the underlying factors that drive behavior and decision-making,

which can be helpful in a wide range of contexts, including business, education, and healthcare.

Despite the controversy, the Verstehen method remains valuable for researchers and practitioners

seeking a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior, motivations, and actions.

Weber believed that bureaucracy was the most efficient way to organize human activity,

including the administration of social welfare programs. He argued that the rationalization of

society, which involves the application of scientific and technical knowledge to social and

economic activities, required creating a system of rules and procedures that would govern the

behavior of individuals and organizations.

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To achieve this, Weber's ideas emphasized the importance of a clear hierarchy of

authority, where each management level had well-defined roles and responsibilities. This ensured

that decisions were made based on objective criteria rather than personal biases or preferences.

He believed this was essential to prevent arbitrary decision-making and ensure the system was

fair and efficient.

Weber's theories on authority were also influential in the development of modern social

welfare systems. He believed that rational-legal authority, based on rules and regulations, was the

most influential authority for modern societies. This allowed for consistently and efficiently

delivering services to those in need. He argued that this authority was necessary to ensure that

social welfare programs were administered objectively and fairly, without discrimination or

favoritism.

Weber's ideas on bureaucracy and rational-legal authority have significantly impacted

modern society, particularly in developing social welfare systems. His emphasis on clear roles,

responsibilities, rules, and regulations has helped to create a more efficient and effective system

of governance that serves the needs of all citizens.

His concept of the ideal type of bureaucracy has been particularly influential in

developing social welfare programs. This type of bureaucracy emphasizes rationality,

predictability, and efficiency, creating standardized procedures and regulations that ensure

fairness and consistency in the delivery of services. By adopting these principles, welfare

organizations can manage resources more effectively and provide services to those in need

promptly and systematically.

Furthermore, ideas on the role of authority in society have helped to shape the

relationship between welfare providers and recipients. His emphasis on the legitimacy of
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management has led to the development of a system in which providers are seen as legitimate

agents of the state, entrusted with the responsibility of delivering social welfare services to those

in need. This has created trust and legitimacy between welfare providers and recipients, which

has been crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of social welfare programs.

Also, his ideas on the importance of bureaucracy in modern society have helped shape

the structure and management of welfare organizations. These ideas have emphasized the need

for a clear hierarchy of authority and have encouraged the development of specialized roles and

responsibilities within welfare organizations. This has created a more efficient and effective

system for delivering social welfare services, enabling welfare organizations to respond quickly

and effectively to the needs of those they serve.

Max Weber's ideologies have profoundly impacted the development of modern social

welfare systems. His ideas on bureaucracy and authority have created an efficient and effective

strategy for delivering social welfare services while promoting fairness and consistency. Weber's

ideas have also established trust and legitimacy between welfare providers and recipients, which

has been crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of social welfare programs.

Weber’s concept of the "ideal type" can be applied to create a model of an effective

welfare state that assists those in need while encouraging productivity and economic growth.

Thus, one of the fundamentals of Weber's economic institutionalism is the evolution of

institutional arrangements that define the incentive structure of economic agents (Nau, n.d.-a).

Furthermore, Weber's emphasis on the role of values and beliefs in shaping social

behavior can guide the creation of social welfare policies that reflect the values of the societies

they serve. For example, his concept of the Protestant work ethic highlights the importance of

self-reliance and diligence, which can be incorporated into programs that promote education and
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job training. One of the Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation (DETR) goals

is that Workforce development offers services, community support, job training, and education

that positions a person for success in the workforce (Employment Security Division - Nevada

Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation, n.d.).

However, some challenges and limitations must be considered when implementing these

ideas in practice. One of the main challenges is finding a balance between the ideals of

bureaucracy and the individual needs of those receiving social welfare. While rules and

regulations are necessary for efficient operation, ensuring they do not lead to inflexible or

impersonal treatment of individuals is essential.

Weber's principles of bureaucracy, including hierarchical authority, division of labor, and

standardized procedures, can be instrumental in ensuring the efficient and transparent

administration of social welfare programs. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that these

principles can have unintended consequences, such as perpetuating unequal treatment and

worsening social inequalities. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the implementation

of these principles and find ways to address the potential adverse effects. One approach could be

to identify and evaluate the criteria used to determine resource allocation and service provision

while also examining the underlying assumptions and biases that may contribute to

discriminatory practices. It is also crucial to establish guidelines and protocols that promote

equal access to support services and resources while ensuring that individual feedback and

complaints are addressed promptly and effectively.

Lastly, it is vital to consider the issue of power dynamics and the potential for abuse of

power within bureaucracies. While Weber's ideas do not directly address these concerns, they are

still relevant to social welfare, where vulnerable populations may be at risk of mistreatment by
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those in positions of authority. Unfortunately, a child in the foster care system might be abused

by their guardian, who may have ulterior motives of gaining income from the state. However, by

acknowledging and understanding these challenges, we can take proactive steps to address them

and work towards creating a more just and equitable social welfare system that benefits all

individuals.

According to Graham (n.d.), participant observational research is widely used by

sociologists and social workers today. Weber first introduced this approach in his report on East

Elbian Germany in 1892 while completing his studies at the University of Heidelberg. Even in

2023, we still rely on his methods. Weber was heavily influenced by his mother's Puritan beliefs,

which instilled in him a strong work ethic and financial goals for the present and the future.

As Simon (2019) notes, bureaucracy is critical for public services in contemporary

society. It empowers people to be self-sufficient. In Nevada, JobConnect, a division of DETR, is

responsible for helping citizens find employment. To qualify for unemployment benefits, one

must demonstrate that they have been actively seeking a job by filling out a form on the

JobConnect and State of Nevada websites. These rules exist to ensure that resources are

distributed fairly among the unemployed in Nevada.

Participant observational research is a popular research method used by sociologists and

social workers today, according to Graham (n.d.). Weber introduced this approach in his report

on East Elbian Germany in 1892 while still studying at the University of Heidelberg. Even in

2023, we still rely on his methods. Weber's mother's Puritan beliefs profoundly influenced him,

instilling in him a strong work ethic and financial goals for the present and the future.

Additionally, Simon (2019) points out, that bureaucracy is essential in providing public

services in modern society. It empowers people to be self-sufficient. In Nevada, JobConnect, a

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division of DETR, helps citizens find employment. To qualify for unemployment benefits, one

must fill out a form on both the JobConnect website and the State of Nevada website to

demonstrate that they have been actively seeking employment. These rules ensure that resources

are distributed equitably among the unemployed in Nevada.

Welfare agencies are committed to creating a level playing field by adhering to policies

and procedures and removing any power dynamics between those who assist and those in need.

These agencies aid those in need to support them in their time of hardship, ensuring everyone

can thrive. By providing assistance based on need and following established procedures, welfare

agencies can provide security and stability to those requiring it, ultimately promoting social

equity and justice.

Empathy is a highly valued and essential quality that enables individuals to connect with

others on a deeper level. It involves understanding and being sensitive to the emotions, needs,

and experiences of others. In sociology, Verstehen is a technique used to comprehend the

subjective world of individuals, enabling the understanding of their behavior's intentions and

meanings. This approach emphasizes the importance of personal interpretation as it provides

insight into people's motives and behaviors.

Verstehen can be a powerful tool for interviewers to evaluate a candidate's potential in a

job interview setting. It enables them to assess whether the candidate has the necessary skills,

attitude, and personality traits required for the job. Furthermore, Verstehen helps interviewers

determine whether the candidate will fit well into the company's work environment and culture.

This is especially important as it ensures that new hires can integrate seamlessly into the team

and contribute to the company's success.

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Similarly, teachers can encourage empathy in an inclusive classroom by allowing

children to share their traditions and culture with their classmates. This can lead to a deeper

understanding and appreciation of different cultures and backgrounds. It fosters a sense of

belonging and acceptance among classmates and can help create a positive and inclusive learning

environment. Furthermore, it can enhance children's social-emotional skills, enabling them to

interact positively with others and build meaningful relationships.

Understanding Weber's theories is a powerful tool for gaining a deeper insight into the

intricate social dynamics that shape our world today. Weber's contributions have been

particularly influential in studying the impact of culture and historical context on social

structures and individual behavior. By immersing ourselves in Weber's theories, we can unlock

knowledge and understanding about the world. The concepts he introduced, such as the "ideal

type," provide a framework for analyzing complex social phenomena. Furthermore, his ideas on

social class and power inspire us to reflect on how these factors shape our opportunities and

outcomes. Ultimately, studying Weber's theories encourages us to broaden our perspectives and

deepen our understanding of the complex social systems that govern our lives.
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References

Employment Security Division - Nevada Department of Employment, Training and

Rehabilitation. (n.d.). https://detr.nv.gov/Page/Employment_Security_Division

Giolando, E. (2021). The 10 best High school Language Immersion Programs. Go Overseas.

https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/best-high-school-language-immersion-programs#parag

raph-item-65587

Graham, T. (n.d.). Social Welfare I [Online Textbook]. Eastern Gateway Community College.

Kondrat, M. E. (2015, April). Person-in-Environment. Oxford Bibliographies. Retrieved October

16, 2023, from

https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-9780195389678/obo-9780

195389678-0092.xml

Max Weber (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy). (2022, September 21).

https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/weber/

Nau, H. H. (n.d.). Institutional, evolutionary and cultural aspects in Max Weber’s social

economics. Cairn.info.

https://www.cairn.info/revue-cahiers-d-economie-politique-1-2005-2-page-127.htm

ObjectPetitU. (2021, December 13). Verstehen : Max Weber and an approach to social sciences.

Medium.

https://umfarooq0.medium.com/verstehen-max-weber-and-an-approach-to-social-science

s-f95ad578aa9b
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References (cont.)

Poling, J., & Norton, W. W. (2021, March). Applying Weber’s Concept of Bureaucracy to the

Pandemic. Everyday Sociology. Retrieved October 17, 2023, from

https://www.everydaysociologyblog.com/2021/03/applying-webers-concept-of-bureaucra

cy-to-the-pandemic.html

Simon, C. A. (2019, August 1). Chapter 9: State and local bureaucracy and administration.

Pressbooks. https://open.oregonstate.education/government/chapter/chapter-9/