The social role of intellectuals was a pervasive motif in Weber's thought, particularly in his works on religion and politics. Cpmprehensively examining and extending Weber's work on the subject, Sadri provides a new perspective on the intellegentsia and its role in society, and creates a synthetic typology of intellectuals that spans both Eastern and Western traditions.

"Sadri's book is simultaneously a synthesis, exegesis, and interpretation of Max Weber's complex and recurring reflections on intellectuals. This is first-rate Weberian scholarship, filled with creative insights into a great thinker's work."--Robert Jackall, Williams College "By focusing our attention on the role of intellectual strata in Weber's writings and by providing much insight into their tension-laden relation to the world, Sadri has opened up a valuable field for further inquiry, particularly since the role of the intellectual seems to be once again moving into the foreground in the light of current uncertainties about the value of knowledge."--Sociological Review "A significant addition to the canon of Weberian scholarship, this book belongs on the shelf of anyone who would understand the work of Max Weber, because it clarifies and gives structure to what Weber meant by intellectuals in both the religious and political spheres, and because it clarifies Weber's methodology in elegant but simple fashion....In short, a brilliant work."--Choice "Sadri's book is simultaneously a synthesis, exegesis, and interpretation of Max Weber's complex and recurring reflections on intellectuals. This is first-rate Weberian scholarship, filled with creative insights into a great thinker's work."--Robert Jackall, Williams College "By focusing our attention on the role of intellectual strata in Weber's writings and by providing much insight into their tension-laden relation to the world, Sadri has opened up a valuable field for further inquiry, particularly since the role of the intellectual seems to be once again moving into the foreground in the light of current uncertainties about the value of knowledge."--Sociological Review "A significant addition to the canon of Weberian scholarship, this book belongs on the shelf of anyone who would understand the work of Max Weber, because it clarifies and gives structure to what Weber meant by intellectuals in both the religious and political spheres, and because it clarifies Weber's methodology in elegant but simple fashion....In short, a brilliant work."--Choice