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Quote by Talcott Parsons

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The Protestant ethic and the spirit of capitalism

This work examines the cultural and religious origins of modern economic behavior, arguing that certain Protestant doctrines, especially the concept of a worldly calling and predestination, fostered a disciplined, rational approach to work and wealth accumulation. The author contends that this ethic, while originally religious in nature, eventually became secularized and contributed to the spirit of modern capitalism, characterized by systematic, profit-oriented enterprise. The book remains a foundational text in sociology and economic history, sparking ongoing debate about the role of ideas in shaping economic systems. more

Author

Talcott Parsons
Talcott Parsons

Talcott Parsons (December 13, 1902 - May 8, 1979) was an influential American sociologist known for his structural functionalist theory. His work provided significant insights into understanding social structures, social change, and the functioning of social systems. more

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“And also to the alien, who is not of Thy people Israel, but comes from a distant land on account of Thy fame; for hearing of Thy great name and Thy strong hand, and Thine outstretched arm, he comes to this house to pray... do Thou listen in the heavens, the place where Thou dwellest, and perform all that the alien begs of Thee, so that all the peoples of the earth may know Thy name, to fear Thee like Thine own people Israel, and to know that Thy name is proclaimed over this house that I have built.”

“Consider, children ... the pain of touching the tip of your finger to your mother's stove, even for a fraction of a second. That is an experience which most of you have suffered. Now try to imagine that pain, not simply on a fingertip but spread over the whole surface of your body, and not for a mere second, but everlastingly. That, children, is hellfire.”

“I don't particularly care about having [my characters] talk realistically, that doesn't mean very much to me. Actually, a lot of people speak more articulately than some critics think, but before the 20th century it really didn't occur to many writers that their language had to be the language of everyday speech. When Wordsworth first considered that in poetry, it was considered very much of a shocker. And although I'm delighted to have things in ordinary speech, it's not what I'm trying to perform myself at all: I want my characters to get their ideas across, and I want them to be articulate.”