Essay on Impact of the Writers of Antiquity on Modern Times

Impact of the Writers of Antiquity on Modern Times History is riddled with the names of various intellectuals and descriptions of their theories. Born of brilliant men like Marx and Machiavelli, to name a few, these theories are preserved in books, illustrated in day-to-day domestic and international affairs, and immortalized in modern theories and documents. They are the predecessors of present theories that have been reinterpreted for a different era and reapplied in a new context. In his most famous work, The Prince, Niccolà ³ Machiavelli discusses the ways in which to not only attain, but also retain, political power. His works deal heavily with methods for creating and maintaining a defensive state—one that is capable of†¦show more content†¦These philosophies are also evidenced by Saddam Hussein’s inhumane treatment of his people. Machiavelli’s ideas are also reflected in works of influential writer and political theorist Thomas Hobbes. Although Hobbes views government as both unnatural and unnecessary, he nevertheless regards it as an act in man’s best interest. Surrendering some of man’s natural rights and entering a social contract with an absolute authority ensures the preservation of internal peace, and protection from outside forces. Hobbes’ famous work Leviathan speaks out against separation of powers in the government, and promotes government control of all aspects of life, including religion. Hobbes’ writings were attacked by English philosopher and political theorist John Locke. Locke, a supporter of both separation of power and separation of church and state, disagreed strongly with many of Hobbes’ theories. Throughout his works, he continually supports sovereignty of the people, a system of checks and balances, and the preservation of personal freedoms, including freedom of religion. These views influenced Thomas Jefferson and other Founding Fathers of the United States, and led to the major role played by Locke and his writings in the Constitution of the United States. Another writer whose works continue to influence the modern world is Karl Marx. Though his importance during his lifetime was not great, his posthumous impact is undeniable. As one of the mindsShow MoreRelatedHistorical And Philosophical Movement Of The Renaissance1596 Words   |  7 Pagesindividualism and modernity through the unification of philosophers, artists, writers, and poets. Although it has no fixed beginning, most theories placed the beginning era in the early 14th century. The renaissance profoundly affected European Intellectual life through the introduction of different perspectives, ideas, innovations, literature, art, science, religion among many other aspects that continue to shape modern philosophy. 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Between 1300 and 1800 European society underwent a gradual cultural deconstruction, through the religious reformation, scientific revolution, and development in social relations which broke down the authority of these twin pillars and redefined European society. This was a radical break that marked the 18th century as a critical moment of change in EuropeanRead MorePythagoras of Samos and His Theorem875 Words   |  3 Pageswidely before establishing a religious colony in Croton. His religious contributions and philosophy made more of an impact on his contemporaries than did his mathematical contributions. Yet, today he is remembered as the man behind the famous Pythagorean Theorem. This paper will examine both Pythagoras l ife and his gift to math. Little is known of the historical Pythagoras. Ancient writers attempted to piece together the story of his life according to what his friends and followers had witnessed, but