Western Civilization since Reformation

Culture

The shared beliefs, customs, and ways of life of a group of people shape how they live and interact. It influences art, language, traditions, and social behavior. 

Civilization

A complex society develops when people build cities, form governments, and create systems of writing and trade. It represents an advanced stage of human organization and culture.

Hebrews

An ancient people of the Middle East who believed in one God and followed a covenant with Him. Their religious ideas laid the foundation for Judaism and later Christianity.

Monotheism

The belief in only one divine being who controls all creation. This idea was a major break from the many-god religions of the ancient world.

Revelation

The act of divine truth being made known to humans. It is believed to occur through prophets, sacred texts, or spiritual experiences.

Greeks

The people of ancient Greece made lasting contributions in art, politics, science, and philosophy. Their ideas continue to influence Western thought and culture. 

Reason

The power of the mind to think logically and make judgments based on evidence. It became a key method for seeking truth and understanding the world.

Philosophy

The study of existence, knowledge, and ethics through logic and rational thought. It encourages questioning and critical thinking about life and reality.

Plato

A thinker from ancient Greece who founded the Academy in Athens. He believed that true knowledge came from reasoning about ideal forms and moral truth.

Aristotle

A student of Plato who focused on logic, science, and observation. His ideas shaped later studies in ethics, politics, and natural science.

Humanism

A belief that emphasizes human potential, reason, and dignity. It values human achievement and focuses on life in this world rather than the divine.

Alexander

A Macedonian ruler who created one of the largest empires in history. His conquests spread the Greek language, art, and ideas across three continents.