What is a major contribution of Max Weber to sociology?

Max Weber's major contribution to sociology is the introduction of the method of Verstehen, which emphasizes understanding social behavior from the perspective of those engaged in it. This method advocates for a qualitative approach to understanding human actions and social phenomena, requiring sociologists to empathize with the experiences and motivations of individuals within their social contexts. By prioritizing the subjective meanings that individuals attach to their actions, Weber allowed for a deeper exploration of social dynamics, values, and cultural contexts, distinguishing his work from purely quantitative approaches that focus solely on observable behaviors. This approach has had a lasting impact on sociological research and theory, influencing qualitative methodologies and interpretive sociology.