The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism

The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism Glossary

Enterprise

Business

Denomination

When applied to religion, this refers to a group or sect with a particular set of beliefs.

Ecclesiastical

Related to a church

Asceticism

Strict control over oneself and, generally, rejection of material concerns.

Provisional

Temporary, beginning

Hedonist

Focused only on fun and pleasure

Subsistence

Working just enough to get by, but not more

Dogmatism

Narrow-minded and unquestioning adherence to a principle

Predestination

Belief that everything has been determined beforehand

Theology

The study of religious belief

Antithesis

Direct opposite

Reprobate

Someone lacking principles or morals

Sublime

High moral or spiritual value

Communion

An intimate exchange, or the Christian ritual of breaking bread and sharing wine that represents the relationship between men and Christ

Regimented

Strictly disciplined and organised

Secular

Non-religious

Procurement

Obtaining or gaining something

Engender

Cause or bring about

Autonomous

Independent

Idleness

Lack of activity