The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism

I found the book's ending rather abrupt, leaving me wanting more information. Although I enjoyed the initial part, I struggled towards the end due to repetitive points. I had hoped for a detailed history on the origin and development of Calvinism, as well as its influence on capitalism, which was missing. Examples of wealthy Calvinists would have been beneficial.

The book's central theme of ‘economic adventure' and frugality among Calvinists influencing wealth acquisition is intriguing. While Protestant asceticism may have waned, its impact persists.

I would rate the book three stars because while the religious aspect is well-explored, the economic connection feels underdeveloped.

After half a year out of college, I have experienced a prestigious but exploitative internship, a few months of unemployment, and my real induction into the working world (as a government employee). These experiences forced me to confront my own neuroses after years at a high-stress university - my inability to handle free time and cultivate a life outside of work and my fears of being useless. And so it seemed like time to read Weber. I definitely identified with this book more than I would like to. Granted, I had to slog through the really dense section about obscure reformation personalities. (I hadn't heard the name Ulrich Zwingli since that reformation history class I had to take in high school!) But I'm glad I'm read it, and the last 10 pages were heartbreakingly good.