1. The Judeo-Christian Tradition
How the great monotheistic faiths influenced democracy.

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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