Agriculture

How (→ 3.1.1) occupations develop is a basic ↑ research question because the phenomenon “Occupation” ( DOSTAL 2005) and the qualifi cations required for it are not the only solution for the tasks to be completed by skilled workers in industry and trade. There are alternative ways to attain these qualifi cations and they are taken in practice. Dostal, undoubtedly one of the most prominent researchers on occupations, has referred to the complexity and the ambiguity of the simple term “occupation” (cf. DOSTAL 2005, 105 f.). Luther’s work (1483 to 1546) at the latest made the term occupation, and the secular comprehension of occupation, subjects of public discussion and of numerous interpretations ever since. Luther’s predominant achievement was that he used the words occupation and ↑ vocation for secular tasks (vocatio externa), for an offi ce, a status and for activities in the world (cf. WOLF 1969, 154 f.). He thus overcame the close bond between occupation and the clergy in the sense of a “vocation” by God’s call.