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Roots of Democracy The Greco-Roman and JudeoChristian Influence on Democracy Athens becomes the 1st Democracy • Athens is the world’s first direct democracy. • In a direct democracy, all citizens meet in one place to make the laws for the state. (town meeting) • The Athenian Government had many strengths, but it also had serious weaknesses. Athenian law denied citizenship to women, slaves and foreign residents. The Death of Athens • Athens political problems made it weak. • Socrates became a scapegoat for Athens problems. • When Sparta defeated Athens, it lead to a lack of confidence in democracy. • When Socrates was executed, his student Plato was convinced that most people lacked the wisdom needed to have a democratic government. Plato’s “Republic” • Plato wrote a book called “The Republic” • In this book he describes his ideal state which consists of the following: Philosopher Kings Skilled Administrators The People Aristotle’s “Politics” • Plato’s student Aristotle became the next great Greek philosopher. • He wrote a book called “Politics.” • In it he stated the following: – The main goal of every individual is to achieve happiness. – Since man is the only animal that can think, his life should be governed by reason – Man is by nature a political animal. Greece Quick Review • How did the Greeks influence the development of democracy? – Government favors the many rather then the few. – Direct Democracy – Concept of citizenship (Although limited) – Socrates taught to question – Plato: leaders should be intelligent – Aristotle: People should be happy Rome Develops a New Democracy • Romans were actively involved in their government. • They formed a Republic in which all government officials were elected by the people. • They also created a written legal code. Roman Law • Roman laws included the following: – All citizens had the right to protection under the law. – Laws could be changed by vote • Rome also structured their government into 3 branches. – Legislative, Executive, Judicial • Romans felt that in times of crisis they should appoint a “temporary dictator” to solve the crisis. Rome Quick Review • How did the Romans contribute to the development of democracy? – Representative Democracy • Republic: All government officials elected – Separation of Powers (3 Branches) • Legislative, Executive, Judicial – Senate is an example – Roman Written Legal Code Before Judaism, what were the characteristics of most religions? • Polytheistic (Many gods) • People thought gods wanted sacrifices and rituals in their honor. What did Hebrews (Judaism) believe? • One all powerful God – Monotheistic • People were created in God’s image – All people have dignity and divine spark • God wanted people to live moral lives – All can decide between good and evil. • How did this contribute to the development of democracy? – It emphasized the worth of the individual Did the Hebrews have Laws? • Ten Commandments • What was their focus? – Morality and ethics – Strict and all had to obey… – …but God was merciful. What did the prophets teach? • Everyone should: – Oppose injustice and oppression – Help those less fortunate – Life could be better on earth – An end to poverty – People are capable of good – Equality Judeo-Christian Quick Review • How did the Judeo-Christian tradition contribute to the development of democracy? – All humans are special – Individual Responsibility – Everyone must obey the law – Fight against injustice