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The Judeo-Christian Tradition. How the great monotheistic faiths influenced democracy. Ancient Greek & Roman Beliefs. Polytheism many gods & goddesses who reward or punish people for behavior Different than the monotheistic religions (belief in one god), Christianity, Judaism, Islam.
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The Judeo-Christian Tradition How the great monotheistic faiths influenced democracy.
Ancient Greek & Roman Beliefs • Polytheism • many gods & goddesses who reward or punish people for behavior • Different than the monotheistic religions (belief in one god), Christianity, Judaism, Islam
Judaism • Religion of the Hebrews • Monotheistic (one God) • The Torah • God wishes for people to be moral People are created in God’s image • Each person has dignity that can never be taken away • Differs from Greek & Roman ideas of dignity based on reason and the belief in one god • People can choose (reason) between good & evil = moral responsibility; individual worth • You are responsible for the choices you make
Christianity • Ideas stem from Judaism • Jesus Christ • monotheism • personal relationship b/w God & each human being • ALL people are equal before God, regardless of status, wealth, nationality... • EQUALITY OF ALL PEOPLE=CENTRAL BELIEF OF DEMOCRACY!!! • Emphasized social responsibility • Love God, yourself, neighbors, enemies • The Golden Rule
Ideas Spread • Judaism spread as the Jews were repeatedly forced from their homelands • moved as a community, taking their beliefs to new lands where they influenced others • Christianity spreads across Roman Empire • Roman Catholic Church becomes the world’s most powerful institution • Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire
Islam • Began in Middle East with prophet Muhammed • Holy book: Qur’an/Koran • He emphasized… • Dignity of all human beings • Believe that strong community bond will lead to tolerance of different groups • it is the responsibility of the community to fight oppression • give charity • help those in need • 5 Pillars of Faith • Laws apply equally to ALL, even leaders
Legacy of Judaism, Christianity & Islam Ideas that shaped democracy: • Every person has the ability to choose between right and wrong • The duty of the individual and the community to combat oppression • The worth of an individual • The equality of people before God