Calvins Reformation in Geneva: Self and Social Signalling
نویسندگان
چکیده
As Weber (1904) recognized, Calvinistic beliefs about predestination may constitute a powerful incentive for good works; an individual wishes to receive assurances about her future prospects of salvation, and good works may provide a positive signal about such prospects. These beliefs can in turn create a social pressure to behave well, as good works can also signal to others that individuals belong to the electand are therefore likely to behave well in social interactions. Moreover, the Consistory, an institution created by Calvin to monitor and publicize individuals behaviour, can allow for such social signalling. We analyze these self and social signalling incentives, and show how religions a¤ect levels of cooperation and coordination.
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