The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism (Paperback, New ed)

"The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism" represents the starting point in Weber's studies of religion and demonstrates the role played in the development of modern capitalism by Protestant (and particularly Calvinist) ethics. At the same time it does much more, and students new to Weber who are seeking an understanding of the continuing contribution made by this book to current debates on the origins of capitalism, on economic determinism, on methodology, and on the future of contemporary industrial culture, should welcome the introduction written by Anthony Giddens. Giddens analyzes the background within which the book was written, summarizes its main themes and connects them to broader aspects of Weber's studies in history and sociology. In addition, he provides a concise account of the protracted debate to which "The Protestant Ethic" has given rise, concluding with an assessment of how far Weber's ideas have withstood the critical battering to which they have been subjected for over 70 years.