What does "means-ends" means?

Question

this is from my sociology textbook:

"Tasks and interactions are rationalized in terms of means-ends efficiency."'

Answer 1

You are referring to Weber's "'Rationalization' of Society" theory.

He thought that rationalization was a broad societal process in which life becomes more rational and subject to "means-end reasoning." Means-end reasoning means choosing the best means for your chosen ends/purpose. It's like a life strategy where you first choose where you are going then find the most efficient path to get there.

So, in terms of interactions, you wouldn't antagonize someone that you later want to work with. That would be irrational.

Answer 2

The expression that "the ends justify the means."   That even if you use some ethically or morally questionably method, the end result makes it "worth it."