Max Weber’s Analysis of the Rise of Monotheism: A Reconstruction
Author(s)
Kalberg, Stephen
Abstract
Hidden within Max Weber’s Ancient Judaism, ‘The Sociology of Religion’ chapter in Economy and Society, and The Religion of China lies a causal explanation for the rise of monotheism in ancient Israel. Weber’s powerful analysis becomes apparent only if reconstructed by reference to central tenets of the causal methodology that underlie his diverse substantive texts. If ‘adequate causality’ is to be achieved, (a) facilitating and necessary orientations of action, and (b) synchronic and diachronic interactions of action must be present. Yet Weber’s causal methodology does not involve simply a ‘weighing’ of positive or favouring orientations of action against obstructing action; nor does it rely upon linear ‘causal chain’ procedures. Rather, the conjunctural interactions of patterned action that occur within a context of patterned action are pivotal. This three-stage methodology guides this reconstruction of Weber’s analysis of the rise of monotheism.
