The Social Impact of the Puritan Ethic on the American Mindset (English version)

Puritanism holds a special place in the historical formation of the American nation, due to the two opposite opinions regarding its impact upon the American culture and civilization. Thus, while some believe that what is wrong with America is that too much Puritanism survives to haunt and inhibit their country, others believe that the failures of their country result from the dilution of the Puritan discipline and ideas. This is why, we should point out that we have tried to give an objective analysis of the phenomenon, considering the different aspects under discussion in relation to the epoch they belonged to, and especially to the mentality of those times. Thus, we can conclude that although we do not have the three basic Puritan principles in their original form, we believe that method, discipline and order remain the guiding principles that rule the American society. So, they are still very present today but the final goal for which they are used is no longer self-control and hard-work in order to obtain redemption, but self-control and hard-work in order to become more successful and better one’s material condition and social position.