Closing Arguments from Greece

There is always a risk in learning something.  It might offer some new insight that changes the way you think about other things.  It may call into question things you hold dear or cause you to unlearn something.  In the case of Greece, we were told to forget all the teachings that the Romans brought culture and technology to the Mediterranean and Europe.  In fact, they borrowed/stole all of Greek culture and technology.  Took their Gods, their customs, their laws and architecture.  Sure, they changed some of the names.  In defense of both sides, the cultural achievements of all impressed both John and me.

And a final thought about populations.  If the government is a democracy or a republic, the goal is to educate and refine the understanding and academic capability of the people…they have an obligation to be informed, thoughtful and engaged in the future direction of their country.  On the contrary, if you have a totalitarian state, be it a kingdom, empire, oligarchy, feudal state or whatever, you don’t want the population enlightened or engaged—that is a liability.  You prefer them distracted and “entertained.”  Should we have a Theater or a Circus?  It depends.  The Republic of Rome, the theater flourished.  As Rome morphed into an empire, enter the circus.  I am a new theater enthusiast.