Religion and the Rise of Capitalism
What is Religion and the Rise of Capitalism about?
Religion and the Rise of Capitalism (1926) is R. H. Tawney’s influential study of the relationship between religious thought and economic development in England from the late medieval period through the 17th century. Tawney traces how Christianity’s medieval social teachings—which subordinated economic activity to moral and religious concerns—were gradually replaced by a Puritan ethic that sanctified individual enterprise and commercial success. The book engages with Max Weber’s Protestant Ethic thesis while offering Tawney’s own historical analysis of how capitalism became morally acceptable.
Main themes in Religion and the Rise of Capitalism
Economic history
Economic history emerges as a defining element in Religion and the Rise of Capitalism, shaping character development.
Religion and capitalism
The presence of religion and capitalism in Religion and the Rise of Capitalism connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Protestant ethic
Religion and the Rise of Capitalism thoughtfully explores protestant ethic through its central conflicts.
Medieval economics
The presence of medieval economics in Religion and the Rise of Capitalism connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Why Religion and the Rise of Capitalism is still relevant today
Religion and the Rise of Capitalism is a classic of economic history that addresses the enduring question of how capitalism became morally legitimate in the West.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Religion and the Rise of Capitalism about?
How religious attitudes toward economic activity shifted from medieval moral constraints to Puritan sanctification of commercial enterprise.
How does it relate to Max Weber?
Tawney engages with Weber’s Protestant Ethic thesis while offering his own historical analysis of the relationship between religion and capitalism.
Is it academic?
Scholarly but accessible. Tawney writes clearly and argues persuasively for a general educated audience.
Can I read it free?
Yes, the complete text is available free on TextStack.