Religious Foundations Of Western Civilization

16 Chapters

Additional Info
Religion defines the foundations of the West. Christianity, meeting at specific times and places with Judaism and Islam, from ancient times to the present day, has formed the basis for Western civilization. The confrontation between Islam and Christianity brought centuries of strife; the conflict between Judaism and Christianity precipitated an unending debate, full of recrimination. Nevertheless, the three religions defined for the West the human situation; determined the goals of the social order; influenced the arts, architecture, music, and literature; preserved philosophy, science, and technology; and engaged one another in religious, political, and cultural dialogue.
This book introduces students to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam – key concepts and historical origins; their impact on politics, society, and culture; and the effects of modernity al all three traditions. This volume will be the main textbook in courses in religion, history, Western civilization, and in core humanities programs.