The problem is that most books gave unqualified approval for the theory, even though it has been subjected to serious criticism for some 90 years, according to Richard Hamilton, a professor of sociology at Ohio State University. Only a few of the books cited any critiques of the theory. Unfortunately, that's just one example of how scholars, including those who write textbooks, sometimes cling to favorite theories and beliefs long after they've been disproved, Hamilton said. Another myth that Hamilton examines is the long-running belief that Mozart died a neglected pauper. He also explores the myth that the lower-middle class in Germany was responsible for electing Hitler.
Scholars know the evidence, but are unwilling or unable to give up the thesis.
New findings are either ignored or glossed over. The Protestant work ethic theory is a good example. The famous sociologist Max Weber first published the theory in 1905 in his book The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism . His basic argument was that there was a strong causal connection between ascetic Protestantism and the rise of capitalism in the West. The book has been considered a masterpiece and gained widespread acceptance, especially in sociology, Hamilton said.