No one knows whether the Romans really believed in their gods. I doubt they believed that their Emperors were really transformed into gods on death. In a book by Daniel J. Gargola called “The shape of the Roman order: the Republic and its spaces”, the author points out that they believed deeply in the rites …
Hypocrisy is alive and well in the American evangelical community. It was collectively adamant that President Clinton should be punished for the Monica Lewinski affair, but now, faced with accusations of pedophilia against Senate candidate Roy Moore, the latter is an “upright man” who should be forgiven for his sins. Moore’s election win would apparently …
Historically, American evangelicals were poor and on the margins of society. Evangelicalism in the 19th Century stood for public education, prison reform and the abolition of slavery. They advocated equal rights, including voting rights, for women, and the right of workers to join a union. They also fiercely defended the separation of church and state. …
The Netherlands, Belgium and Switzerland are the three European countries that permit assisted suicide for non-terminal illnesses that cause unbearable suffering, taken to include mental suffering. A 2007 independent survey found that 80 per cent of people supported assisted dying for the terminally ill, but only 43 per cent did for those who are not …
Here are some thoughts, called “The Decent Life” from the philosopher Emperor. Honour and revere the gods*, treat human beings as they deserve, be tolerant with others and strict with yourself. Remember, nothing belongs to you but your flesh and blood – nothing else is under your control. 5.33 Make sure you remain straightforward, upright, …
