Product Description

Karl Lowith's study of Max Weber and Karl Marx is a key interpretation of both the theme of alienation in Marxist theory as well as the subject of rationalization in Weber's sociology. Lowith's philosophical approach, a product of Heidegger's existentialism, shows how both Marx and Weber work toward a common ``life-philosophy.'' Lowith's analysis of the philosophical anthropology of Marxist theory and sociology also demonstrates that much of the ideological dispute between these two branches of thought is the result of a mutual misunderstanding. Lowith's book remains the best short introduction to the differences and similarities between Weber and Marx. This edition also includes a preface from Professor Bryan S. Turner, who demonstrates the book's relevance to contemporary sociology.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1519275 in Books
• Published on: 1993-11-16
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 144 pages

Review
`Lowith's essay is brilliant and it is a sign of something that we have had to wait half a century for its' translation' - The British Journal of Sociology

`Lowiths essay is brilliant and it is a sign of something that we have had to wait half a century for its translation - The British Journal of Sociology

`The publication of this English translation of Max Weber and Karl Marx is a major event, particularly for those who seek to understand the characteristic uniqueness of the reality in which we move' - Sociological Review

`The publication of this English translation of Max Weber and Karl Marx is a major event, particularly for those who seek to understand the characteristic uniqueness of the reality in which we move - Sociological Review

Language Notes
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: German

About the Author
Karl Lowith, a professor of philosophy and biology in Munich, studied under Heidegger until he was forced to leave Germany in 1934. In 1952, he returned to Germany, where he served as Professor of Philosophy at the University of Heidelberg, a position he held until his retirement. He died in 1973. Bryan S. Turner is Dean in the Faculty of Arts, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.

Customer Reviews

Lowith's Argument Remains Important
Lowith's 1932 essay on Marx and Weber remains the definitive statement of the deep commonalities between these two thinkers. That is, it argues that Weber's central concern is to develop a fundamental theory of capitalism, as with Marx. For decades, it was "necessary" to attempt to parry Marx with Weber. Lowith's stood as an accusation of "bad faith" with regard to all such attempts, especially those who would evacuate Weber of all critique, even if only existential. Derek Sayer's "Capitalism and Modernity" is perhaps most in the spirit of this minor masterpiece.