The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism by Max Weber

For the first time in 70 years, a new translation of Max Weber's classic The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism--one of the most enduring and influential books in sociology--is available. Translator Stephen Kalberg is an internationally acclaimed Weberian scholar. In this Third Edition, Kalberg offers a precise and nuanced rendering of The Protestant Ethic that captures Weber's style as well as the unusual subtlety of his descriptions and causal arguments. Kalberg's standardization of Weber's terminology facilitates understanding of the various twists and turns in his complex lines of reasoning. Weber's original italicization, highlighting major themes, has been restored. A glossary of major terms has been added. In short, The Protestant Ethic thesis is presented in a clear and highly readable manner. There are three compelling reasons to read this classic: * It explores the continuing debate regarding the origins and legacy of modern capitalism in the West. * It helps the reader better understand economic development today around the world, especially in Russia, Eastern Europe, Asia, and South America. * It plumbs the deep cultural forces that affect contemporary work life and the workplace in the United States and Europe. In his introduction, Kalberg examines the controversy that has surrounded this book for nearly a century and summarizes major aspects of Weber's complex analysis. Kalberg also discusses Read more