Merchant capitalism in Italy demonstrates the limitation of Weber's Protestant work ethic thesis.

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Merchant capitalism emerged in Italy during the Renaissance period, which was characterized by a secular culture and a focus on wealth accumulation through trade and commerce rather than religious piety. This challenges Weber's Protestant work ethic thesis, which argues that the rise of capitalism was linked to the values of hard work and frugality fostered by Protestantism. Therefore, the evidence of merchant capitalism in Italy demonstrates the limitation of Weber's thesis.

Merchant Capitalism in Italy Demonstrates the Limitation of Weber's Protestant