Werner Sombart, German economist and sociologist (d. 1941)

Werner Sombart (19 January 1863 – 18 May 1941) was a highly influential German economist and sociologist, widely recognized as a pivotal figure in the social sciences during the first quarter of the 20th century. He notably led the "Youngest Historical School of Economics," a significant intellectual movement that emphasized the importance of empirical research, historical context, and ethical considerations in understanding economic phenomena, moving beyond the abstract, universal laws often favored by classical economics. Sombart’s profound contributions significantly shaped the discourse on capitalism's evolution and its societal impacts across Continental Europe, establishing him as a foundational thinker in economic sociology.

Among Sombart's most enduring contributions are key concepts fundamental to the study of capitalism. He is widely credited with coining the term "late capitalism" (Spätkapitalismus), which he used to describe a specific stage in the development of capitalism characterized by increasing rationalization, bureaucratization, and a potential decline in the entrepreneurial spirit, particularly in the period following World War I. Furthermore, the powerful concept of "creative destruction", a dynamic process where innovation and technological advancements lead to the obsolescence of older industries and business models, is also attributed to him. While Sombart originated this term in his economic analyses, it was later extensively developed and popularized in economic theory by Joseph Schumpeter, who applied it to explain the continuous cycle of transformation inherent in capitalist economies.

Werner Sombart's Magnum Opus: Der moderne Kapitalismus

Sombart's intellectual legacy is profoundly encapsulated in his monumental work, Der moderne Kapitalismus (Modern Capitalism). Published in three comprehensive volumes between 1902 and 1927, this magnum opus offered an exhaustive historical and sociological analysis of capitalism's origins, evolution, and future trajectory. It stands as a cornerstone in the historical-institutional approach to economic studies, providing a detailed framework for understanding the system's development across centuries.

The Four Stages of Capitalism According to Sombart

In Der moderne Kapitalismus, Werner Sombart meticulously outlined four distinct stages in the historical development of capitalism, tracing its transformation from its earliest manifestations out of feudalism to its then-contemporary form:

• Proto-capitalism (Urkapitalismus): This initial stage emerged from the decline of feudal societies, representing the embryonic forms of capitalist activity. It was characterized by rudimentary trade, early accumulation of capital through ventures like long-distance trade or lending, and the beginnings of market-oriented production, often intertwined with agricultural or handicraft economies.
• Early Capitalism (Frühkapitalismus): Spanning from roughly the 16th to the 18th centuries, this period saw the significant rise of merchant capitalism, the expansion of global trade routes, and the formation of larger, more organized enterprises. It was marked by substantial capital accumulation, the development of sophisticated financial instruments, and a growing emphasis on profit as a primary driving force, often supported by mercantilist state policies.
• High Capitalism (Hochkapitalismus): Predominantly observed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, this stage was defined by the advent of industrialization, the widespread adoption of the factory system, and the emergence of large corporations and complex financial markets. It was a period of intense competition, rapid technological innovation, and significant social changes driven by the burgeoning industrial proletariat and the consolidation of economic power.
• Late Capitalism (Spätkapitalismus): According to Sombart, this stage began around the post-World War I era. He envisioned it as a period where the initial dynamism and individualistic entrepreneurial spirit of capitalism began to wane. This stage was characterized by increased state intervention, the rationalization of production processes, the growth of cartels and monopolies, and a shift from individual entrepreneurship to more bureaucratic, organized forms of economic activity, indicating a maturation and a potential shift in the system's fundamental character.

Frequently Asked Questions About Werner Sombart

Who was Werner Sombart?

Werner Sombart (1863–1941) was a highly influential German economist and sociologist, recognized as a leading figure of the "Youngest Historical School of Economics." He significantly contributed to the understanding of capitalism's historical development and societal impact.

What key concepts did Werner Sombart coin?

Sombart is widely credited with coining the terms "late capitalism" (Spätkapitalismus) and "creative destruction." While he originated "creative destruction," Joseph Schumpeter later extensively developed and popularized its economic theory.

What is Der moderne Kapitalismus?

Der moderne Kapitalismus (Modern Capitalism) is Werner Sombart's seminal work, published in three volumes between 1902 and 1927. It offers a comprehensive historical and sociological analysis of capitalism's origins, evolution, and distinct stages.

What are the four stages of capitalism according to Sombart?

Sombart identified four main stages in the evolution of capitalism: Proto-capitalism, Early Capitalism, High Capitalism, and Late Capitalism (Spätkapitalismus), each with unique characteristics and historical contexts.