Protestant Ethic

Abstract

AbstractMax Weber's Protestant ethic thesis addresses a macrosociological theme of central importance: the rise of modern industrial capitalism. Cultural factors, heretofore neglected, must be acknowledged, he insists. To him, a “Protestant ethic” called forth amethodicalorientation of believers toward work, profit, and wealth, and this ethic “co‐participated” in the formation of a geographically expansive “spirit of capitalism.” In turn, a thrust was set in motion by this spirit that played a causal part in giving birth to modern capitalism. Weber also takes cognizance of the pivotal role played by the Protestant sects in America. This entry examines further Weber's focus upon ethical conduct in a multivolume corollary project that emphasizes amultitudeof causal factors. Finally, common criticisms of “the Weber thesis” are noted, together with the wide‐ranging impact of this work.