Religion and Capitalism: How They Work Together

Discussion 

Globalization has enabled spread of capitalism throughout the world. Each nation is working to improve its economic situation. Religious groups are playing a part in promoting materialism, aligning with the benefits a developed economy would have for every person. Therefore, the number of religions shunning capitalism is reduced. However, some few groups still exist, and they isolate themselves from society and condemn some acts of materialism that do not align with religious beliefs. In places such as New England, capitalism has spread, but work ethics are still held, guiding people into conducting ethical operations. I feel that materialism and strong religious ideology cannot co-exist. Materialism describes the accumulation of monetary possession and pursuing physical comfort instead of spiritual values. Religion, on the other hand, supports gaining spiritual wealth. According to Weber, religions such as Calvinism Ethics regarded acts of spending too much on luxury a sin. Such ideologies are against helping the poor in society, indicating that it promotes begging. However, such thoughts had held people, till when Protestant ethics gave way for people to invest and engage in the secular world by participating in trade and wealth accumulation. Therefore, religious belongs only shun wealth accumulation through illegal means. 

Response 

Hello, I agree with you that Weber has provided some intriguing thoughts about religion and capitalism. As much as religion supports capitalism, civilization had promoted the concept the most. In American society, capitalism drives individuals and the economy. The nation has funded some religious institutions, indicating that materialism culture is part of both religion and capitalism. In the current society, the number of people who shun capitalism is meager. In the strong religious beliefs, materialism cannot be encouraged as that would lead people away from their spiritualism. Materialism deals with the accumulation of wealth, and it interferes with values supported by religion.