The Origins of Capitalism - Religion vs. Economy

Essay from the year 2012 in the subject Sociology - Economy and Industry, grade: 1 , University of Vienna, language: English, abstract: Beginning with a more general definition of capitalism, I will make a distinction between different types of capitalism regarding the historical background. After giving a historical outline on the origins of capitalism, Max Weber -s Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism is discussed. The question whether economy influences the religion or religion influences the economy is also part of the work. I will conclude that a mixture of historical background, technological improvements and a special work ethic led to the modern form of capitalism, which we can find in industrial countries.