![]() ![]() ![]() Chapter 2: Concerning the Principal Source of Beliefs Among Democratic Peoples The second reason is that there was no democratic revolution in America, and consequently no anarchy extreme social animosities to upset all traditional ideas. Religion is believed without discussion, because it has set its own limits so that laws and politics can change without affecting beliefs. Why is it that the French apply the Cartesian method more strictly than the Americans although the Americans have more liberty? The first reason is the peculiar power of religion in America. This method can only take root in a society where there is a high degree of equality. Basically, the Americans are following Descartes's method perfectly, allowing all traditional ideas to be open for attack. As a result they have an aversion to the supernatural. There is a distaste for accepting anything on the basis of authority, and they think that everything can be explained by human intelligence. ![]() Most people rely on individual effort and judgment for their decisions. The American people pay little attention to philosophy, yet they all think according to the same method. Buy Study Guide Part I: Influence of Democracy on the Intellectual Movements in the United States Chapter I: Concerning the Philosophical Approach of the Americans ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |