Publication Date
12-15-2022
Document Type
Working Paper
Advisor
Professor John Hall
Journal of Economic Literature Classification Codes
N11, N113, Z12
Key Words
Asceticism, Calvinism, Lutheranism, Reformed, Spirit of Capitalism
Abstract
This inquiry seeks to establish that early sociologist Max Weber advances a view that religious faith could indeed affect economic outcomes. In his analysis of Reformed faiths, Weber determines that “the calling” inspired by Martin Luther transformed the work ethic of believers, instilling in them a spirit suitable for the advancement of modern capitalism. The Reformed work ethic observed by Weber served as a basis for individual Protestants to accumulate wealth. Weber also considers the developments of religious asceticism among the faiths of Calvinism, Pietism, Methodism, and the Baptist movements. The ascetic character of these religious communities assisted in generating savings for individuals adhering to Reformed faiths. In addition, Weber examines how these two variables work together to generate positive economic outcomes for those adhering to Reformed faiths.
Rights
© 2022 Celeste Aiu Taber
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/39188
Citation Details
Taber, Celeste Aiu "Max Weber: On Religion and Economic Outcomes, Working Paper No. 71", Portland State University Economics Working Papers. 71. (15 December 2022) i + 14 pages.