Discussion Questions - Essay Example

1. What functional role does religion employ in the development of world historical events? In many ways, religion has helped shape the world historically. It influences how people act and decide. Civilizations have been bound by laws and rules that are dictated by beliefs. This can be evidenced by most currencies. For example, the phrase “In God we trust” is printed on the one-dollar-bill of America. The same words are encrypted in preambles. Looking back at the first civilizations, many of their practices were inspired by their motivation to please their gods.

For instance, one of the reasons why the Mayans sacrificed their best warriors was to appease an angry divinity. Magellan was able to discover Pacific territories with the King’s blessings and directives to share their dogmas. Similarly, Columbus was able to prove that there is more beyond the horizon when he landed on the Americas. One of the first changes he caused was on the beliefs of the natives. Furthermore, a lot of wars were politically explained to be inspired by religious campaigns.

Monarchies such as the Roman Empire apparently sought to spread Christianity that is why almost all of Europe was conquered. One of the strongest human needs is to have a connection with a Supreme Being. Since time in memorial, this basic desire has triggered intense emotions and powered significant movements. Hence, religion has brought about unity as well as conflict among peoples. 2. What significance does agriculture take on in the development of trans-Atlantic and other world conflicts? There has been an evident link between Government Issue (GI) and agricultural talks among countries.

For instance, in Europe a powerful GI protection has been unswerving for years. It has been regarded as an essential protection in exporting and importing agricultural products. This action has been caused by overdue transatlantic conflicts regarding domestic issues and tariffs. One of the earliest disagreements between the United States and Europe happened in the late 19th century. It was particularly an issue between France and America. There was an influx of American produce (specifically grain) in French territory.

This negatively affected the European economy. The divergences have been influenced by agricultural production schemes and globalization trends. Concerning world conflicts, it is common knowledge that a country will engage in war to propagate its resources. Agriculture has always been a strong source of income and sustenance. This field’s status can either cause people to thrive or die due to malnutrition. A number of imperialistic conquests were done to acquire farm lands. In addition, prisoners of war and/or slaves were used as free or cheap labor sources.

One of the famous instances is the enslavement of Africans where an estimate of at least 28 million was forced to plough, raise animals, and other menial tasks. 3. How does the chain of historical events described herein inform your understanding of economic colonialism, racial enslavement, and on-going racism in the world? Enslavement, discrimination, and imperialism have been mainly caused by selfish gains. Nations were colonized to serve as hosts to parasitical foreigners. The occupation may be rationalized in different ways such as education and faith.

From opinion, an example may be when the Philippines were colonized by the United States. At first, the American soldiers rescued the Philippines from Japanese invaders. Afterwards, American generals and legislators came to “help” Filipinos establish an independent republic. In the process, toxic wastes were dumped in the archipelago, natural resources were exhausted, and American products were freely imported into Philippine markets. In a similar vein of thought, racism and racial enslavement have been greatly caused by economic pursuits.

People who were used as slaves were treated inhumanely, thus regarded lowly. This situation gave rise to stereotypical mind sets leading to racial discrimination. A number of Africans and Asians were forcibly subjected to foreign proprietors. Similar settings have made the “black” man or “yellow” man lower than the “white” man. What transpired in history has tumultuous effects in the present. Therefore, humane advocacies should be currently manifested for the sake of tomorrows’ nations. 4. From this chronology of events, what can 21st students conclude about the early formation of the Americas?

As bad as it may sound, students of the 21st century can conclude that the early formation of the Americas was generally prompted by human greed. With selfish aspirations in mind, justice has been overlooked. From its inception, America was advanced by European colonists and made decisions that disrespected the rights of others. Utilizing artillery and other machines, aboriginals’ natural homes were disturbed. Blanketed with a cloud of administrative justifications, moral obligations were ignored.

In the progression, hearts and minds were corrupted. The old but right ways were replaced with new but immoral ways. Another illustration would be the expansion of the United States territory. Instead of working on how to develop its present economy, the government decided to expand its geography. This course of action marginalized original inhabitants such as Native Americans and Mexicans. With all its present glory, America has a dark history to be criticized. Nonetheless, there is always anticipation for what is in store.

Despite its shameful foundation, America, with all its power can make amends. Trust in the innate goodness of man can make significant changes. Active protests would mean nothing without fruitful proceedings. Therefore, America should ultimately use its supremacy with regard for the common good of all. 5. How did the American Declaration of Independence, from English rule in 1776, simultaneously indict the concept of Eternal Law and contradict the concepts of Natural Rights it extolled? “All men are created equal”.

This is the founding philosophy of the American independence. It was written to provisionally address a gruesome controversy. The same content is heard from presidents’ moving platforms. It also apparent in every court proceeding. It is an excellent principle that seeks to respect rights of individuals. However, there is an evident gap between the ideal culture and the real practices. Indeed, it is one of the most excellent propaganda of all time but it seems too good to be practically true.

With the pragmatism of new connotations and current leaders, the phrase had evolving interpretations. One of these is to understand the phrase “… pursuit of happiness” in a self-interested paradigm. Some men can only achieve satisfaction by overpowering others. Furthermore, injustice appears to subsist as long as equality endures. Inequality inevitably stems from unfairness itself. Unquestionably, all agree that there should be justice among all. However, any body will also agree that life is unfair.

From experience, everybody has been a victim of one-sided dealing. Correspondingly, anybody has his particular contribution to discrimination. Since existence is inherently unjust, how can men be of one and the same treatment?