THE EAST IN THE WEST

Sociological and historical enquiry in Europe has had as a continuing pre-occupation the problem of the Uniqueness of the West, the search f or factors that can be held responsible for its achievements in the mo dern world and in particular the emergence of industrial capitalism. T hat search has led to a devaluation of the East and consequently a mis taken self-understanding of the West. This article attempts to outline the problem with regard to rationality, commercial literacy (book-kee ping), mercantile enterprise and family participation in such activity .