Revision:Criticisms of the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism

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These come from the introduction to "Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism", written by Giddens, and published by Routledge.

Weber's Characterisation of Protestantism was Faulty

Various critiques have suggested that Weber's interpretation of how the various sects and aspects of the reformation worked is slightly faulty. Some suggest that calvinist ethics were in fact anti-capitalist. Other say that Franklin's ideas were misinterpreted by Weber.

Weber Misinterprets Catholic Doctrine

Followers of this school of thought argue that Weber, not having studies a great deal about Catholicism, misinterprets it. Catholicism, they say, does in fact say a great deal that is favourable to capitalism. The reformation was a reaction to catholic capitalism rather than a way of allowing protestant capitalism to flourish.

Weber's Data is Wrong

It is suggested that the data Weber bases his thesis on is flawed. Apparently the data he uses is based on one source that is contradicted elsewhere.

Weber's Analysis of Capitalism is Stilted

Some say that Weber is too arbitrary in his determination to carve up definite forms of capitalism so as to make the latter forms align with his interpretation of protestantism. Many of the "modern" forms of capitalism in fact existed in ancient times.

Protestantism didn't Necessarily Cause Capitalism

Some, including many Marxists, argue that there is no connection between Calvinism and capitalism. Marxists state that Calvinism was simply a product of capitalism.

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