Includes bibliographical references (pages 339-410) and index.

Steven Overman explores the concordant values of the Protestant ethic, capitalism, and sport by applying German scholar Max Weber's seminal thesis. Weber demonstrated a relationship between the Protestant ethic and a form of economic behavior he labeled the "spirit of capitalism." The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Sport proposes "seven Protestant virtues" built upon rational asceticism and the work ethic that comprise the Protestant ethic. The spirit of capitalism is presented as a derivative of this ethic and a major force in shaping American institutions, notably organized sport. The second part of the book discusses the spirit of American sport as it is manifested in values the author identifies as the American sport ethic.--[book cover].

The Protestant ethic. The legacy of Puritanism -- The Protestant ethic and the spirit of American capitalism -- The seven Protestant virtues -- Protestantism and the American ethos -- The evolution of the American work ethic -- The spirit of sport. The Protestant ethic and the institutionalization of American sport -- The American sport ethic 1 -- The American sport ethic 2 -- Child-rearing and youth sport in Protestant culture -- The co-opting of amateur sport -- Professional sport : the progeny of capitalism -- Finish line : summing up the ethos of sport.