Introductory Sociology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

How did Max Weber argue that society should be studied?

1. Structurally

2. Ideologically

3. Qualitatively

4. Quantitatively

The correct answer is: Ideologically

Max Weber believed that society should be evaluated from different perspectives, particularly those of different social classes and social statuses. He believed that ideologies of different groups within society play a large role in influencing social structure and that this should be taken into consideration when studying society. Therefore, he argued that society should be studied ideologically, rather than quantitatively or structurally. While qualitative research is important, it does not fully capture the complexities of societal beliefs and values that Weber believed were crucial to understanding society. Additionally, structural approaches tend to focus on larger systems and patterns, rather than individual beliefs and values. Thus, Weber's approach to studying society through ideologies is a unique and valuable contribution to sociological research.