Religion contributing to development

Redding

Post-Confucianism in East Asia

Argues that post-Confucianism developed as traditional Confucian values declined due to modernisation, industrialisation and Western influences. Confucianism traditionally emphasised social hierarchy, obedience and hard work, but its decline led to a loss of confidence in Chinese values. As a result, post-Confucian values emerged, emphasising economic success, personal achievement and protestant work ethic, which helped drive the growth of East Asian economies.

Lehmaan

Pentecostalism

Argues that Pentecostalism has spread globally because it adapts easily to local cultures, incorporating local music and traditions into worship. This allows people to retain elements of their existing spirituality while embracing Pentecostal beliefs, making it appealing to poor and disadvantaged communities.

Berger

Pentecostalism as a functional equivalent to Protestant ethic

Argues that Pentecostalism in Latin America acts as a ‘functional equivalent to the Protestant ethic’, encouraging hard work, self-discipline and abstinence from gambling, helping people improve their economic position. This has contributed to the growth of a prosperous Pentecostal middle class in countries such as Chile and Brazil. However, religion alone cannot guarantee economic development, as a lack of natural resources in northern Brazil has slowed growth despite religious values encouraging hard work.

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