Comparative study of cultural elements affecting on the socio-economic development in Iran and South Korea with emphasis on Current religions in both countries

Rituals and religions in every country, rich in teachings and cultural elements of diverse areas of life, including work and economic activity to earn a livelihood for their followers. Since according to statistical data, the followers of Christianity, Buddhism and Confucianism in South Korea and Islam in Iran constitute the largest number of people, in this study using documentary method and theories of Max Weber, cultural elements related to economic and social development that is implicit in these religions are to be examined. In conclusion, it can be stated that South Korean cultural elements related to economic development, including: discipline, rationality, participation, non-fatalism, scientism, law orientation, work ethic, sense of ability of the authorities and people in the achievement of development, the spirit of accumulation of capital and so on, are internalized through teachings of various regulations and religions in individuals and also made it possible achieve to economic development. While in Iran, despite the emphasis of Islam religion, because of the historical and social conditions prevailing in the country, the suitable cultural elements of development is not internalized among individuals, so we are witnessing the slow progress of economic.