Herodotus was one of the first Greek intellectuals to distinguish the hundreds of city states in Greece from the rest of the world. In effect, though Sparta and Athens represented two different governments with sometimes drastically different views, there was one common thread that united these two and distinguished them from the 'barbaroi'. Victor Davis Hanson, in his book, "Who Killed Homer?", noted that to be Hellenikos was to believe that, "Science, research, and the acquisition of knowledge itself are to remain apart from both religious and political authority," (29); that, "Military power operates under and is checked by civilian control," (30); that a government should be constitutional and consensual; that, "Religion is separate from and subordinate to political authority," (31); that the average citizen, the middle class, should form the backbone of society; that, "Private property and free economic activity are immune from government coercion and interference," (33); and that, "Dissent and open criticism of government, religion, and the military," are inherent in free societies.
We in America may argue with Europe. We may change the name of "French Fries" to "Freedom Fries". We may laugh at Italian fashion or mock German politics. But what many do not understand is that these are the actions of brothers, which indeed we are. And in such a time of crisis, now more than ever we should affirm that brotherly bond. One of the greatest influences upon American Politics was John Locke, an Englishman. Victor Hugo stands with Alexander Dumas, both Frenchmen, as Classics taught in every High School in America. The music of Beethoven and Mozart, a German and an Austrian, still play in Concert Halls, on television, and in movies across America. And where would Pizza Hut be without Italy? Seriously though, Victor Davis Hanson's description of what a Greek was can just as easily be applied to what an American or a European is today. Indeed, the Danish Prime Minister has said:
"Danes have for generations fought for political liberty, human rights and democracy and for economic freedom, free trade and a free and civilized world. We will continue to do that. It is a part of our history and a fundamental part of our society today."
Clearly America and Europe share one very important, indeed the most important, connection: we are Western. And to be Western is to be Hellenikos.
In light of the recent outrage across the world over the Danish Cartoons, (which can be found here), the issue of Hellenikoi vs. Barbaroi is once again at stake. Athens, Sparta, Thebes, Corinth, and the rest of the Greek Poleis argued and fought constantly. But when two million Persians threatened freedom itself, the common bond of Hellenikos allowed the Greeks to overcome the seemingly impossible. In 2001, a new Persia crossed the Hellespont. And though we survived that Marathon and have inflicted heavy damages, this enemy is far from dead. Now more than ever, we should extend our support across the pond and stand by Denmark.
"I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it."
-Voltaire
-----Jason Roberts
Comments