"Verstehen" is a crucial element of Weber's methodology in sociology. It emphasizes the importance of understanding social phenomena from the perspective of the individuals involved. It involves going beyond simply observing and analyzing actions, but also attempting to grasp the subjective meanings and motivations behind them.
While "Verstehen" can be roughly translated as "understanding," it carries a deeper meaning in Weber's work. It's about empathy, interpretation, and the ability to see the world from another's point of view.