Of Flames and Crowns Ep. 2: DOUGLAS WILSON | The Protestant Work Ethic Built the Best Economies
24 snips
Oct 6, 2025 
Douglas Wilson, an insightful author and pastor, dives into the profound impacts of the Protestant work ethic on civilization. He discusses how the Reformation elevated everyday work to a noble calling, emphasizing that all labor has divine significance. Wilson explores the connection between productive work, masculinity, and cultural building, dismisses misconceptions linking wealth to salvation, and advocates for education that nurtures hardworking habits. He also contrasts capitalism's generous spirit with socialism and highlights the essentials for a thriving economy.
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Everyday Work As Worship
- The Reformation reframed ordinary vocations as acceptable worship before God.
- Martin Luther taught that a milkmaid milking a cow can offer her work to God like a preacher offers prayer.
Raising Laity Dignity Raised Civilization
- Ratcheting up the dignity of lay work liberated society and improved standards across trades.
- When people pursued excellence in ordinary tasks, 'cream rises' and civilization advanced.
Waltons Tapes Requested In Uganda
- An Anglican priest told Wilson that Uganda's First Lady asked for videotapes of The Waltons.
- She wanted them because in those shows 'the men work' and that modeled constructive masculinity.
