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Weber-Ascetics and the Spirit of Capitalism

Weber's asceticism and spirit of capitalism theory present a distinctive relationship

between religious teachings and economic conduct. By the Puritan insistence on diligence, thrift,

and methodical behavior, systematic utilization of the economic resources for rationalizing

economic activity became possible, exemplified by individuals like Richard Baxter. The

worldview that obtained wealth as not being inherently bad but good when sought with the

limitations of a vocation was encouraged by the condemnation of the time-wasting and the

exaltation of the occupations as callings decreed by God and sought for His glory. Such an

outlook helped the businesses perform their activities profitably and ethically, in addition to

controlling the elaboration of specialized crafts.

Furthermore, Puritan morality stood against the aristocratic hedonism of feudal and

monarchical systems and opposed spontaneous pleasure, favoring the ascetic, disciplined

lifestyle. The conflict between pleasure and leisure activities brings to light the broader social

transformations capitalism brought to society. According to Max Weber, " To wish to be poor

was, it was often argued, the same as wishing to be unhealthy "; it is objectionable as a

glorification of works and derogatory to the glory of God" (163). This ideology expresses the

Puritans' approach to the ascetic meaning of the ethical aspects of wealth and the moral necessity

of perseverance.