Social Darwinism

What are your reactions to the concept of Social Darwinism as summarized by the article in class? Do you agree or disagree? How has your view(s) of American History changed now that you know that its past leaders held this opinion? Do you think Americans still hold on to this idea in some form?

Favorite Ice Cream

What is your favorite ice cream and why!

Revolutions....& today

Considering that we have been talking about both the American & French revolutions and that currently the people of Egypt are protesting for a change in their country, what do you think finally motivates people to ask for/demand a change?  What is it that finally convinces people to act?  How does that desire for change mesh with the desire to maintain peace and peace itself?

Absolutist Keys to Success

After reading about the different absolutist monarchs and how they rule, do you believe that the monarch exists 1) to maintain and strengthen the country, or 2) to take care of the people that they rule and protect their well being? 

Strong or Weak Leader

Do you believe that people want/desire a strong person leading them in terms of national leadership?  Or would they rather have someone that they can get rid of when they want and then set up for themselves a new person to lead them?  Please explain your thoughts.

The Scientific Revolution

Do you believe that science and religions (their ideas, doctrines, teachings, history) can be reconciled?  That is, does one have to make the choice to either believe in science and abandon their faith, or hold on to their faith and therefore question science?  Or, can one find harmony with the two?  Explain.

Luther & his ideas

First, would have you been willing to have the Holy Roman Emperor cut off your head rather than give up your personal beliefs about your own faith? Explain your answer. (Remember, you are a noble, and have a lot of land and money to lose).  Second, if you didn't believe in Luther's ideas, would you still be willing to use those ideas as a leverage against the Holy Roman Emperor and compromise your own faith?