Colin Loader Books

German professors and academic intellectuals have often faced criticism for their inaction during the anti-Republican surge of the late Weimar years, which led to the rise of National Socialism. Karl Mannheim, a key figure in a minority dedicated to democratizing German universities, argued for adapting the traditional focus on high culture to foster a more egalitarian and socially aware community. He advocated for sociology education to inspire informed political judgment. Mannheim's work, situated within the Weimar debates on sociology, reveals his commitment to political education for democracy and his interactions with various political thinkers. He confronted critiques that viewed sociology as a tool for undermining cultural values and faced opposition from fellow sociologists who believed the discipline should focus solely on technical findings. Mannheim maintained that sociology should address real-life issues, promote tolerance, and foster consensus rather than competition. His approach emphasized rigorous, critical thought while recognizing individuals' responsibility in shaping their lives. This volume, authored by two scholars with distinct perspectives on Mannheim's work, presents a contemporary view of his ideas, particularly regarding academic integrity and politicization in sociology compared to cultural studies.

Alfred Weber was an important participant in the dialogue over the political and cultural crises of the late Empire and Weimar Republic. This study connects Weber's career to the social, political, intellectual, cultural, and institutional contexts of the period.