The Jews and Modern Capitalism

Exploring the intersection of Judaism and capitalism, Werner Sombart examines how Jewish traders and manufacturers, marginalized from medieval guilds, contributed to the evolution of modern capitalism. He argues that their rejection of traditional commerce's constraints fostered a new competitive environment. While Paul Johnson praises the work, he highlights Sombart's omissions regarding the complexities of Jewish mysticism and the conditions under which commerce thrives. The book offers a provocative analysis of economic development and religious influence in historical contexts.