Western Civilization notes

Civilization

A social-political order that has advanced beyond chaos, barbarism, and mere survival.

Western Civilization

The social-political order that emerged in areas where Christianity has been culturally dominant, especially in Europe and its colonies.

Multiculturalism

The belief that all cultures are equal and no culture is better than another.

Moral Degradation

The idea that some cultures have sunk lower into moral standards than others.

Subjectivity in History

Historians make value judgments and have different perspectives that shape their telling of history.

Objectivity in History

Real events happened in the past due to real causes and motives; God has objective knowledge of history.

Christian Approach to History

Orientation around the biblical timeline, recognition of Creation and Providence, and a scriptural system of values.

Secular Narrative

A perspective that often relies on evolution and scientific consensus, which can be uncertain.

Judeo-Christian Narrative

A view that emphasizes the early building of civilizations and the God-given desire to create beyond mere survival.

River Civilizations

Early civilizations that developed around major rivers, such as the Tigris and Euphrates in Mesopotamia.

Sumerians

The first civilization, known for their contributions like the sexagesimal system of mathematics and cuneiform writing.

Hammurabi’s Code

An early set of laws that introduced the idea of proportional justice but lacked equal justice.

Egyptian Civilization

Centered around the Nile River, known for its mythology, agriculture, and contributions like papyrus.

Assyrian Empire

Known for its brutal military tactics and innovations like crucifixion.

Neo-Babylonian Empire

Conquered the Southern Kingdom of Israel and is known for Nebuchadnezzar's accomplishments.

Persian Empire

Allowed Jewish exiles to return and contributed to infrastructure like roads and postal services.

Greek Contributions

Influential in politics, philosophy, and the arts, with notable figures like Plato and Aristotle.

Roman Republic

A mixed government structure with a Senate and popular assemblies, marked by the struggle between Patricians and Plebeians.

Punic Wars

A series of conflicts between Rome and Carthage that established Roman dominance in the Mediterranean.

Fall of Rome

Marked by the deposition of the last Western Roman Emperor in 476 AD, leading to the decline of the empire.