Weber on Protestantism and Capitalism - Foundations of Modern Social Thought

Explore a 51-minute lecture from Yale University's "Foundations of Modern Social Thought" course that delves into Max Weber's seminal work "The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism." Examine Weber's transition from a capitalist and liberal perspective to a more skeptical view of modernization, influenced by his recovery from mental illness. Analyze how Weber argues that Protestant faith, particularly Luther's concept of "calling" and Calvinist predestination beliefs, laid the groundwork for capitalism's emergence. Compare Weber's complex understanding of capitalist motivations and rationalization with Marx's theories. Investigate the correlation between capitalism and Protestantism, the spirit of capitalism, Luther's conception of calling, and the religious foundations of worldly asceticism. Gain insights into this influential sociological work through eight comprehensive chapters, covering historical context, key debates, and core concepts.

- Chapter 1. Similarities and Differences Among Marx, Nietzsche, Freud and Weber.
- Chapter 2. Weber in a Historical Context.
- Chapter 3. "The Protestant Ethic and The Spirit of Capitalism": The Marx-Weber Debate.
- Chapter 4. The Correlation between Capitalism and Protestantism.
- Chapter 5. What is the Spirit of Capitalism?.
- Chapter 6. Luther's Conception of Calling.
- Chapter 7. Religious Foundation of Worldly Asceticism.
- Chapter 8. Asceticism and the Spirit of Capitalism.