Max Weber

Background Info Born April 21,1864 Died June 14, 1920 His parents were Protestants Based theories on Karl Marx’s findings and theories Many of his studies had to deal with religion

Other-Worldly Mysticism Religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Shintoism Believes you can escape the world not physically, but mentally Goal is to endure life trials by detachment Can separate from pain and hunger of their bodies, therefore salvation is achieved

Inner-Worldly Asceticism Believe that its not the world, but our own temptations and doubts that causes suffering World and body can be disciplined to suppress temptation, and even defeat it Salvation lies in living while disciplining body to avoid excess pain and pleasure

Weber’s Theories Once fully operational, either classification of religion would affect people’s attitudes about the world, resulting in different behavior When many share same outlook it affects development and nature of other institutions in that society

Protestant Ethics Thesis Religion and economic impulses are contradictory Religious impulse is to escape suffering, and suffering is tied to phys. Conditions Economic impulse to meet phys. needs Religion ignores phys. Needs, the economy embraces them