Max Weber’s ethical views on professional activities of the scientist

The article deals with Max Weber's views on the ethical norms of scientists’ professional work in actualization and rationalization of scientific search under current conditions. It is established that the choice of the subject of any scientific problem is value-dependent and fraught with explicit or hidden goals, interests and aptitudes. The ethics of scientific search is directly linked with the problems of actualization and rationalizing both the process itself and the choice of goals. We have analyzed Weber's views on science as a profession and a vocation, his ideal type of scientist, the problem of ethics and the pursuit of science. The ethical component of scientific activity to date could have a significant impact on formation and development of civil society in general and its institutions in particular. Attention is focused on the issues of scientific progress and specialization. We have shown the value of Max Weber's ideas for modern scientists.