RECONCEPTUALIZAR LA SECULARIZACIÓN: COMPLEMENTARIEDAD Y LIMITACIONES EN LAS TEORÍAS DE CHARLES TAYLOR Y MAX WEBER

Abstract

This article compares the perspectives of Max Weber and Charles Taylor on the theory of secularization, highlighting their main methodological, philosophical, and sociohistorical differences. The analysis focuses on analytically presenting the notions of secularization developed by Weber in order to show how Taylor engages critically with each of them. In this way, it becomes apparent that Weber offers a mechanistic and dystopian view of disenchantment, grounded in instrumental rationality and the retreat of value-laden frameworks. Taylor, conversely, proposes new openings toward frameworks of meaning through his concept of exclusive humanism and the immanent reconfiguration of the moral domain. This contrast proves fruitful for challenging preconceived ideas about secularization. Furthermore, it suggests that Taylor’s view is more compatible with postsecular dynamics such as spiritual resurgence, whereas Weber’s remains relevant in phenomena such as the instrumentalization of religion and the emergence of posthumanism.