Moreover, an historical explanation enables us to understand the error involved here exclusively from an aspect that must appear as accidental when viewed from the standpoint of theoretical investigation. We can grasp Sombart's misconception only on the basis of a strict logical examination of his reasoning. In the case of no other opponent of catallactics are the political motives of this hostility so clearly evident as they are in that of Sombart. The frank acceptance of modem economic theory would fit much better than its rejection into the system of philosophy that he expounds in his most recent work. Nevertheless, a fiery temperament and a feeling of obligation to his own past convictions again and again make him unfaithful to his intention of conducting an investigation neutral with regard to value judgments.
Rationalism means the precise weighing of means and ends.
Sombart, of course, is enthusiastic about the Middle Ages. Sombart, Die drei National konomien , P. 259. Cf. above pp. Sombart, op. cit ., p. 21 1. Cf. above p. 118.