Weber - Religion as a force for social change

Weber believed that some religious ideas, particularly protestant, initiated the conditions for capitalism to emerge. 
He noticed that Capitalism tended to develop in parts of Europe where Calivinism was dominant.

Calvinists: Believed in predestination. Their reward for righteous living was believed to be economic success. 

Note: Weber didn't say Calvinism caused capitalism, just that it was a factor. 

Criticisms 

- Sombart: Weber is mistaken, Calvinists are against greed and money for its own sake

- Some countries with large Calvinist populations did not industralise

Strengths

- Marshall: Weber didn't claim Calvinism was the soul reason for Capitalism. Other factors are needed. 

- Marxists: Capitalism predated Calvinism

- Weber's actions highlight the relationship between social structure and social action