Karl Marx argued that social institutions in a society were the result of the economic makeup of that society. Max Weber argued that

Max Weber's contribution to sociology is significant in understanding how various factors contribute to the structure and functioning of society, and his view contrasts with that of Karl Marx. While Marx emphasized the primacy of economic conditions in shaping social institutions and believed that the economic base determines the social superstructure, Weber offered a more nuanced perspective.

Weber posited that ideas, beliefs, and values play a crucial role in shaping social institutions and influencing the course of social development. He introduced the concept of the "Protestant Ethic," where he argued that religious ideas and cultural values were instrumental in shaping economic behavior and development, particularly during the rise of capitalism. Thus, his viewpoint suggests that social institutions do not solely arise from economic conditions but are also constructed from cultural, ideological, and social factors.

This understanding underlines the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in social analysis, recognizing that various elements, including ideology and culture, interact with economic factors to shape society. Weber's analysis highlights that while economics is vital, it is not the exclusive determinant of social institutions, thereby offering a broader framework for examining societal structures.