Religion and the Rise of Capitalism · Question
How does Religion and the Rise of Capitalism develop the theme of Puritanism and the Capitalist Spirit?
Answer
Religion and the Rise of Capitalism by R. H. Tawney develops Puritanism and the Capitalist Spirit across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book analyzes the specific contribution of Puritan theology, with its emphasis on discipline, methodical labor, and worldly success as a sign of grace, in fostering the 'capitalist spirit' and legitimizing the pursuit of wealth.
Explores the connection between Puritan religious ethics and the development of a capitalist mindset.
Calvinism's emphasis on industry, thrift, and asceticism, along with its acceptance of commercial enterprise, laid the groundwork for the Puritan work ethic and the capitalist spirit.
Explores how Puritanism's endorsement of business enterprise and its later individualism prepared the way for commercial civilization.
Evidence in the book
- Religion and the Rise of Capitalism
Explores the connection between Puritan religious ethics and the development of a capitalist mindset.
- III: Calvin
Calvinism's emphasis on industry, thrift, and asceticism, along with its acceptance of commercial enterprise, laid the groundwork for the Puritan work ethic and the capitalist spirit.
- IV: The Puritan Movement
Explores how Puritanism's endorsement of business enterprise and its later individualism prepared the way for commercial civilization.
- Puritanism and Society
Puritanism is portrayed as a driving force behind economic progress, with its emphasis on hard work, thrift, and worldly success as signs of divine favor.
- II: A Godly Discipline Versus the Religion of Trade
The chapter examines the paradox that Puritanism, initially authoritarian and collectivist, later became a vehicle for capitalist individualism.
- III: The Triumph of Economic Virtues
The chapter details how Puritanism evolved to sanctify moneymaking as a divine calling, bridging the gap between religious duty and economic enterprise.
- Endnotes
Weber's association of Puritanism with the capitalist spirit is examined and challenged, noting the variety of social theories within Puritanism and the influence of non-religious factors.
