The thesis of Max Weber on the influence of the monastic movement on the emergence and development of the free market economy and capitalism, is undoubtedly sufficiently well known. Less well known, but no less important, is the research of Léo Moulin into the organisation and rules of the religious orders, and their influence on the emergence of political and social institutions, which are now taken for granted.
In the context of the industrial and economic activity of the monks, you should not forget the idea of the solidarity that inspires these activities: solidarity through mutual assistance between the monasteries, and solidarity with people in need who find support and comfort in so many abbeys.
