9. Global İşletme Araştırmaları Kongresi (GİAK), İstanbul, Türkiye, 15 Haziran 2023, ss.1-2
The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism," and Milton
Friedman's influential book, "Capitalism and Freedom," offer valuable
insights into the intricate relationship between religion, capitalism, and the
development of Western societies. Weber's analysis focuses on the historical
and cultural factors that have shaped the evolution of capitalism, particularly
examining the influence of religious beliefs, such as Protestantism. He argues
that the Protestant work ethic, emphasizing hard work, thrift, and the pursuit
of wealth, played a significant role in fostering capitalism. On the other
hand, Friedman, an economist and advocate of classical liberal economics,
explores the advantages of free-market capitalism and emphasizes limited
government intervention in the economy. While acknowledging the historical
impact of religion, Friedman primarily addresses the economic principles of
capitalism and its relationship with political freedom. Weber's work draws upon
historical research and sociological insights, while Friedman relies on
economic theory and empirical analysis. Ultimately, Weber's analysis provides a
deeper understanding of how Western societies adopted a capitalist work ethos,
while Friedman's "Capitalism and Freedom" promotes a laissez-faire
approach to economic policy, advocating for limited government intervention and
the benefits of free markets.