what is the protestant ethic and the spirit of capitalism?

The protestant ethic and the spirit of capitalism is a theory produced by interactionist Max Weber. Weber studied a group of Calvinist protestants and their ascetic lifestyle. Calvinists believe in a thing called predestination, which meant that God had already decided who was and wasn't going to heaven, and it couldn't be changed. In order to overcome the anxiety this gave them, they lead an ascetic lifestyle- refraining from drinking and sexual pleasures, and working very hard in their careers. Weber concludes that it is this ascetic lifestyle led by the Calvinists that caused for a boom in the economy and industrialisation. This is therefore an argument FOR religion being a changing force on society. 

Answered by Lucy B. Sociology tutor

4593 Views

See similar Sociology A Level tutors

Related Sociology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Outline three ways in which school may mirror work in capitalist society.


Outline two cultural factors that may affect ethnic differences in educational achievement.


What is the Marxist understanding of the Family?


What is the difference between primary socialisation and secondary socialisation? (4 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy