Description

This short video discusses the Max Weber’s theory of the Protestant Work Ethic.  Starting with a comparison of most religions before the Protestant Reformation, the narrator discusses Calvinism and predestination.  He then introduces Weber’s theory of how these beliefs drove a unique work ethic that fueled capitalism.

Discussion Questions

• What did Weber say that most religions were like concerning work and “earthly affairs” before the Reformation?
• What is Predestination?  How did it end up driving capitalism, according to Weber?
• How might you sum up the Protestant Work Ethic?

Keywords: Protestantism, Christianity, work ethic, history, America, United States, culture, economics, sociology, religion,