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,