Quote by Max Weber
No sociologist should think himself too good, even in his old age, to make tens of thousands of quite trivial computations in his head and perhaps for months at a time. One cannot with impunity try to transfer this task entirely to mechanical assistants if one wishes to figure something, even though the final result is often small indeed.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the role of active engagement and critical thinking in the work of a sociologist. It suggests that even in old age, sociologists should not shy away from making numerous computations in their minds, even if they seem trivial or insignificant. It warns against relying solely on mechanical assistants, as doing so would hinder the sociologist's ability to deeply understand and analyze their subject matter. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of personally engaging with the data and calculations involved in sociological research to achieve meaningful and accurate results, regardless of their apparent significance.
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By Max Weber
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