ntial aspects of religion on capitalism, and instead credits that general revolution of thought that characterizes the period of the Renaissance and the Reformation, by which in art, philosophy, morals, and economy, the individual emancipateshimself from the bonds imposed on him during the Middle Ages(2). Arguments could be made on Webers behalf that it was the Reformation that emancipated Protestants from the bonds of Catholic ritual. The removal of the Catholic priest necessitated Protestants to acquire a higher degree of learning for their own salvation. An education combined with divine sanction towards profit and a sinful attitude towards idleness would only lead towards a diligent work ethic. It can be inferred, in this rebuttal, that the Reformation may have been a guiding factor in the Renaissance and therefore Fanfanis argument would be inclusive of Webers theory.The argument that capitalism existed before the Reformation is valid, but Fanfani is discussing it as a definition where as Weber discusses it as driving force. Webers thoughts, that rationality being a basis for capitalism, inspired him to use several quotes from Ben Franklin early in his work. In where, even before there was a strong capitalistic foundation formed in the colonies, Weber found Franklins writings to be infused with the prudence of rationality. From Franklins work Necessary Hints to Those That Would be Rich Weber quotes:For six pounds a year you may have the use of one hundred pounds, provided you are a man of known prudence and honestyHe that loses five shillings, not only loses that sum, but all the advantages that might be made by turning it in dealing, which by the time that a young man becomes old, will amount of a considerable amount of money(3). Webers critiques Dickson and McLachlan deny that Franklin is preaching a Protestant work ethic, and suggest that by the title of Franklins work he is merely suggesting prudent advise. Yet, it is t...
