Western Civilization - Essay Example

Western Civilization Civilization refers to the advancement of a society to achieve a higher level of development and organization. Western civilization can be described social norms, ethical values, beliefs and political systems dating from the classical period of the Greco-Roman era. The western civilization is based on three distinct traditions; the classical culture of Greece and Rome, Christian religion and the enlightenment of the modern era (Kurth 1), therefore, western civilization can be described as a synthesis of these three traditions.

One of the defining characteristic of western civilization is recognition of individual worth; moreover, the importance of an individual is granted priority and is believed to have worth, deserving a life of dignity. It is as a result, that the society strives to give charity to the needy by expressing the value of afflicted person. In addition, people bear the obligation to build the world a better place and improve the immediate society, therefore, this is a bid to heal the world and make it a better place.

Western civilization also prides itself in upholding the rule of law individually and in the society. The principle of rule of law applies to everyone regardless of what power is bestowed on them. This goes a long way in ensuring that a fair trial is accorded to an individual. In addition, this protects rights of an individual thus providing an environment where one can actualize and realize his/her dream. In the wake of numerous cultures, it has not been easy for the western civilization to accept plurality of languages and customs.

This is so since western civilization favors harmony than discord, and hence strives to discover universal principles and standards. Work Cited Kurth, James 2004, Western Civilization, Our Tradition. The Intercollegiate Review. 2004. Web. 4 September 2012.