Author Question: Discuss Weber's explanation of why capitalism thrived in Protestant countries but was rejected in ... (Read 44 times)

notis · **on:** Jul 2, 2018

Discuss Weber's explanation of why capitalism thrived in Protestant countries but was rejected in countries dominated by Roman Catholics.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

The author's experience in Morocco, which included the absence of women from public positions, intense stares directed at him, pushing and shoving at the train station, and total disregard for sanitation by food vendors, left the author with a

profound sense of ________.
A) ethnocentrism
B) culture shock
C) cultural relativity
D) stereotyping

zenzy · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 2, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Protestants embraced change in the social structure because of the Calvinist ideology of predestination. Based on this ideology, it was believed that before birth, people were destined for either heaven or hell and they did not know their destiny until death. But this concept produced anxiety for Protestants and they looked for a sign that they were chosen for heaven. This sign became the visible success in life characterized by hard work, investments, and the accumulation of wealth. Excess money was invested to make more money, thus increasing the sign that someone was saved. The investment strategy led to capitalism. Catholics, unlike Protestants, embraced the traditional methods of understanding the world and resisted change. They emphasized dedication to family, church, and king. Accepting one's lot in life and remaining rooted in the social structure discouraged the capitalist philosophy embraced by Protestants.

Answer to Question 2

B