Get Back To Work (07:16)

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The Protestant ethic developed within theological doctrine and capitalism. Weber points out a paradox between capitalism focus on consumerism and the spiritual focus of Protestantism. Understanding this paradox requires an analysis of modern capitalist activity and Protestant religious beliefs.

Defining Capitalism (02:53)

Explore the different definitions of capitalism between Marx and Weber. Weber aimed to distinguish modern capitalism from traditionalism. Adventure capitalism preceded modern capitalism.

Adventure Capitalism (02:31)

This form of capitalism involves the acquisition of wealth through piracy, military conquest, or speculatory exploration. Weber was concerned with human action and motivation rather than structural features. Explore an example that illustrates how Weber explained the difference between traditional and modern capitalistic economic motivations.

Evolution of Protestant Beliefs (04:22)

The spirit of modern capitalism is characterized by devotion to the earning of wealth and avoidance of the use of income for personal enjoyment. The evolution of the Protestant ethic begins with the reformation of the Church of Rome. Lutheranism created the concept of "a calling."

Ascetic Protestantism (02:03)

There are three tenets of Calvinist belief relevant to the evolution of Protestant ethic. First, the universe is created solely to further the glory of God and only has meaning in relations to God purposes. Second, God purposes are beyond human comprehension and the idea of predestination.

Psychological Consequences of Calvinism (03:24)

Weber asserted that the results of Calvinism are oppressive loneliness. A further evolution of doctrine made it obligatory to believe themselves a chosen one. Good works, including an acquisition of wealth, are a sign of election, not a way of attaining it.

Spirit of Capitalism (04:35)

Calvinist religious doctrine elevates work ethic and frugality to spiritual principles which jump-started modern capitalism. The rationalism of economic life in modern capitalism connects with irrational elements of religion. Weber's work is expressive of the dialectical relationship between economy and religion and explains an elective affinity.

Credits: Max Weber's the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism (00:25)

Credits: Max Weber's the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism