Social change

• Religion as a force for social change - Weber

  • Calvinist origins:
  • Calvinist followers became anxious about whether or not they were part of 'The Elect' but had no way of confirming their place.
  • To overcome their anxiety, they devoted themselves to their work.
  • They re-invested their wealth back into the business, thus boosting capitalism through religion.
• Criticisms of Weber and religion causing social change

  • Applies Protestantism to fit his thesis and rejects elements that did not prove his ideas.
  • Kautsky - thinks Weber underestimates economic factors and argues capitalism could of come before Calvinism.
  • Tawney - thinks technology was the cause, not religion.
  • Not every Calvinist country is capitalist.
• Weber criticising Marx on religion causing social change

  • Marx claims that the industrial revolution caused social change, not religion. Weber says India and China experienced industrial revolutions but it didn't lead to capitalism.
  • India - Hinduism rejected capitalism because it focuses on other-worldly beliefs, they believe in the spiritual world, not a material one.
  • China - Confucianism was like Calvinism but they were allowed to please themselves instead of re-investing.
• Religion and social protest - Bruce

  • Civil Rights movement being successful due to religion:
  • Could take moral high ground by pointing out hypocrisy.
  • Was the negotiator between the two sides as it was respected by both.
  • Provided ways to express political dissent, like MLKs funeral.
  • Could mobilise the public opinion.
• Religion and social protest - Bruce

  • The New Christian Right wasn't successful due to religion:
  • Americans believe in freedom of speech, but the NCR says everyone should only do what the Bible says.
  • They found it difficult to get cooperation from other religious groups.
  • Lacked widespread public support due to negative tone against other beliefs.