Faith and Economics in the 19th Century

This chapter explores the historical interplay between religious beliefs and economic thought during the 19th century, focusing on key figures such as Francis Wayland. It discusses the evolution from a Calvinist view of predestination to one that embraces human agency, influencing thinkers like Adam Smith. Additionally, it critiques existing interpretations of the connection between Protestantism and capitalism, offering insights into how theology shaped economic behaviors across different cultures.