What is the most important principle of the renaissance?

We studied many different principles of the renaissance thinkers, like secularism, humanism, classicalism, perspective, and individualism. These principles are familiar to us today because we still value them. Take these five principles and rank them from one to five. One being the best and five being the least important. Explain your ranking for the number one and the number five spot. Why do you think #1 was most important and #5 was least? Look at other peoples responses and see if you agree with how they ranked these characteristics.

Scholasticism vs. Monasticism

Which of these ideas is more important to you? Explain why. Is it possible to live your life by only one of these ideas? Describe how your life so far shows that you are a believer in one or the other of these ideas.

Crusades: Are they relevant in today's world?

The Crusades were of great importance in the medieval world, however, I am interested in whether you think the Crusades still have any relevance in today's world. Our politicians and diplomats are extremely careful not to use the word Crusade in describing any interaction with Muslim countries. Many people today have the view that the current situation in the world is similar to a Crusade. From what we have learned about the Crusades - would you say that people that hold that view are mistaken or correct? Back up your opinion with facts from class. Remember to keep all opinions diplomatic and appropriate for a world-wide viewing audience. Your viewpoints could come back to haunt you when you run for President in 20 years.

Roman Values

What Roman value is most apparent in the values of the United States of America? Many students in my classes studied the values of the Roman people as seen through the actions of their Emperors. Some Emperor's symbolized integrity and honor. Marcus Aurelius, Trajan, and Augustus all improved the lives of thousands of subjects in the Roman Empire. However, Emperors like Caligula and Nero represent the worst of Roman values. What ideas during the Republic and the Empire are still around today? Which of these values are important to the people of the United States? Do you think these types of values will always be important to cultures? Explain.

What was the greatest contribution of the Neolithic cultures?

Prior to the development of civilizations, Neolithic nomadic cultures could be found all over the earth. The idea that these groups of people were uncivilized, uneducated and had nothing to offer to the history of mankind is an indication of a person who has very little understanding of the importance of the advancement of intellect and philosophy. The people showed an understanding of life after death, ecology, respect for environment. Their contributions were the founding of civilized societies. After studying them this year, what do you think is their greatest contribution to history?