Question

Weber explains religion through his analysis of the Protestant ethic. He explains that Protestants condemned spending their money on extravagant material goods. Because of this, the group was able to stockpile wealth, which they linked to salvation. What does Weber explain about religion through his analysis of the Protestant ethic?

1) Religion is linked to salvation
2) Protestants spend their money on extravagant material goods
3) Wealth accumulation is condemned by Protestants
4) The Protestant ethic is a religious belief system

Answer 1

Max Weber's assessment of the Protestant ethic emphasizes the role of religious beliefs in fostering capitalist societal structures, highlighting the relationship between religious ethos and economic behaviors.

Step-by-step explanation:

Max Weber's analysis of the Protestant ethic reveals how certain religious beliefs can precipitate economic behaviors and societal changes. Weber observed that in Protestant societies, particularly those influenced by Calvinism, there was a notable development of capitalist societies. The ethic espoused by Protestants, according to Weber, discouraged expenditure on extravagant material goods and encouraged the accumulation of wealth as a sign of divine favor and a path to salvation. This ethos arguably led to the creation of a work ethic that became foundational to the rise and development of capitalism. Therefore, Weber's analysis underscores the role of religion, specifically the Protestant ethic, in shaping economic systems and promoting societal transformations.