Weber likened the history of society to a train and ideas to the switchmen of the tracks.What does this mean?
A) Ideas can be powerful forces to create change and alter the course of history when they are believed by enough people at the right time.
B) Ideas control the actions of people and can stop the progress of society.
C) Ideas control the materialistic human urge to hoard wealth, much like a train will speed out of control if not slowed down.
D) Ideas control the basic human urge toward individualism by keeping people in the same society moving down the same track together.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Weber's comparison between society and a train suggests that society is constantly moving forward, like a train on its tracks. However, ideas act as switchmen who are able to redirect the course of history, much like a switchman can redirect the train onto a different track. This means that when enough people believe in a particular idea, it has the power to create change and steer society onto a different path. Therefore, option A is the best choice.

Weber Likened the History of Society to a Train and Ideas