"Protestant ethics" refers to a set of values and beliefs that emerged from the teachings of the Protestant Reformation, particularly those associated with figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin. This ethical framework emphasizes hard work, frugality, and individual responsibility, often linking success in one's vocation to a sense of divine favor. The concept suggests that these values contribute to economic success and social progress, influencing the development of capitalism in the Western world. The idea was notably explored by sociologist Max Weber in his work "The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism," where he argued that Protestant beliefs shaped modern economic behavior.