Is this answer correct about this question: Hunt discusses some of the conflicts that existed in mercantile philosophy and society during this time, particularly in relation to the pursuit of profit and the function of the state. How did England "rectify," if you will, the mercantile era's relentless pursuit of riches in the face of long-standing "historical" disapproval of such behavior (e.g., Roman Catholicism)?
Now here is the answer:
England attempted to strike a balance between the drive for profit and traditional values through the spread of Protestantism, which considered diligence, thrift, and financial success as signs of God's favor. This ideology was in direct contrast to the Catholic Church's emphasis on poverty, charity, and humility. By linking the desire of riches with religious aspirations,
England was able to portray her ardent pursuit of trade and commerce as a moral endeavor. To strike a balance between the pursuit of money and conventional values, England also pushed the idea of "enlightened self-interest" This theory from the age of enlightenment suggested that individuals may pursue their passions while also having a constructive influence on society.
In order to reconcile these conflicting principles, England appealed to the Enlightenment ideology. A philosophical movement known as the Enlightenment emerged in Europe during the 18th century and strongly emphasized reason, scientific inquiry, and human freedom.
Intellectuals of the Enlightenment argued against prevailing religious and cultural beliefs in favor of a more logical and secular approach to society and administration. England's approach to trade and commerce was significantly influenced by the philosophy of the Enlightenment, which defended the pursuit of profit as a means of promoting human freedom and economic prosperity. Adam Smith and other Enlightenment thinkers believed that free trade and competition would enhance wealth for everyone and that
government intervention in the economy should be kept to a minimum.
England was able to defend its pursuit of profit while allaying concerns about potential negative effects by embracing the ideas of the Enlightenment. It was also able to balance its mercantile ideology with its enduring religious and cultural traditions by presenting the pursuit of profit as a means of fostering individual freedom and economic growth. Yet it's important to keep in mind that there were challenges in their reunion. The pursuit of wealth, which frequently came at the expense of other nations and their populations, was the root cause of exploitation, slavery, and colonialism, among other evils. Thought leaders of the Enlightenment frequently defended these actions as necessary for cultural diffusion and economic
growth, but they also went against the values of equality and freedom that the Enlightenment espoused.
