ABSTRACT
There are many interpretations of Weber's ideas, covering a broad spectrum. For example, no agreement has been reached on Weber's stance on the theory of social evolution. Theories of social evolution are based on the assumption that the development of society is directional and linear, proceeding through subsequent, cumulative stages. Debates surrounding Weber's work have addressed for instance the following issues: Is there a minimum programme of evolutionary theory to be distilled from Weber's works, and, if so, what is the object domain of this programme? Is it universally historical in nature or is it limited merely to the developmental path of the West? Or did Weber, after all, espouse comparative historical sociology that abandons the idea of social evolution through subsequent stages which can be ordered into a developmental logical continuum? (Schluchter 1984, pp. 1-5).
