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Catholicism in America, 2007.
An analysis of the factors contributing to the increase in numbers and popularity of Catholics in America.
855 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the history of Catholicism in the United States and how it has greatly influenced how America thinks and operates, especially when considering the core beliefs and practices that continue to be so pervasive in contemporary American culture. The paper discusses the factors that influenced Catholic immigration to America, as well as what influenced the increase in popularity of Catholicism within America itself.
From the Paper
"Second, Pope John XXIII who had been elected as Pope in 1958 became one of the most popular and beloved Catholic Pope in modern history, due to his attempts to bring Catholics and non-Catholics together in friendship and appreciation. Third, John XXIII also convened the Second Vatican Council or Vatican II between 1962 and 1965 which "brought about substantial and long-lasting changes and innovations in the Catholic church." Accordingly, this council "solved some of the lingering problems of being a Catholic in America and made it possible for Catholics to feel less different in the eyes of their contemporaries and non-Catholic neighbors" (Marino, 256). And fourth, Pope Paul VI, the successor to John XXIII, issued "Humanae Vitae" which contained a strong reaffirmation on the ban on artificial contraception, a subject which continues to create much controversy and debate in today's America."
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"The Clash of Civilizations", 2007.
An analysis of the theories and relevance presented in "The Clash of Civilizations" by Samuel Huntington.
967 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the theories presented in Samuel Huntington's thesis, "The Clash of Civilizations." The paper then discusses why Huntington's thesis appears to be so compelling to some people today, many years after it was written. The paper discusses his theories in relation to current events in order to explain why it is more popular today, than when it was written in 1993.
From the Paper
"These clashes are now new; too put them into perspective Huntington notes that the conflict between Western civilization and the Islamic civilizations has been going on for 1,300 years. That is important for today's generation of scholars and students to know, because many students are only aware of names like bin Laden and groups like al Qaeda and Hezbollah. Indeed, after WWII, when the colonial empires of the West faded, Arab nationalism emerged, followed by Islamic fundamentalism, he asserts. He was correct when he wrote that "centuries-old" military confrontations between the West and Islam are "unlikely to decline.""
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"The Government of the Tongue", 2007.
An analysis of the interpretations and applications of Richard Allestree's "The Government of the Tongue."
5,998 words (approx. 24.0 pages), 0 sources, $ 142.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Richard Allestree's "The Government of the Tongue" and his discussion in the book about the use of speech and how it impacts mankind's spiritual relationship with God. The paper discusses the many perversions of speech, querulousness, positiveness and obscene talk that Allestree describes. The paper concludes by suggesting that Allestree's discourse has applications that go far beyond the religious and it provides some examples of these applications.
Table of Contents:
Summary
Interpretation
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Returning to the war in Iraq for a moment, one can view the other side of defamation. According to Allestree, one engages in defamation, not only when one knowingly spreads falsehoods, but also when one spreads information without ascertaining whether that information is actually true. However, this type of defamation has not received the same type of secular condemnation as the intentional propagation and spreading of falsehoods. On the contrary, despite evidence that he led the nation to believe that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction without ascertaining the truth of those statements, President Bush was re-elected as president in 2004. Allestree's position would have suggested that Bush be held accountable for his actions, even though he did not appear to be motivated by malice. In fact, Allestree even linked this type of lying to idolatry, because it suggested that the speaker worshipped his own imagination over God. While such a statement may appear controversial, it certainly suggests that any political leader claiming to be a Christian has a moral obligation to ensure that he is speaking the truth, not merely that he is speaking what he believes to be true."
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Creationism, 2006.
This paper discusses creationism, which rejects scientific theories that contradict the Biblical story of creation.
1,026 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper relates that creationists reject the scientific theories regarding the origin of life, the origin of the human species, the geologic history of the earth, the formation of the solar system and the origin of the universe. The author points out that a second kind of creationism, "creational spirituality", holds that, rather than theory, awe is the appropriate response to the unfathomable wonder of creation. The paper also explains that Neo-Creationists want to allow the Bible to be one of the choices of theories that are given to school children in public schools as to how the earth was formed and mankind came into being.
From the Paper
"A wave of Revivalism swept the South to counteract Modernism and Intellectualism. There was conflict between the liberals and the conservatives in society, between the Evolutionists and the Fundamentalists. Things came to a head in the small town of Dayton, Tennessee, when John Scopes, a high school biology teacher, was tried for teaching the theory of evolution. The trial was widely covered by the most famous broadcasters in the nation. In the trial, also called the "Scopes Monkey Trial," it was decided that it would be legal to teach evolution in the public schools."
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Mayan Culture, 2007.
A discussion of Mayan culture, including their art and religion.
2,807 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 83.95
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Abstract
This paper gives an overview of the ancient Mayan culture, with an emphasis on their art, religion and their daily lives. The author first examines the significance of the Mayan pyramids which still stand today. The pyramids are felt to give insights into the Mayan's religion and government. The paper continues by suggesting theories of why the Mayans disappeared. Despite the disappearance of ancient Mayans, the author suggests that cultural influences of the Mayans still exist in Central America today.
Outline:
Introduction-Who Were the Mayans?
The Case Against the Mayans
The Case for Mayan Culture
Conclusion
From the Paper
"As for what architecture tells us about the Mayan people, the creation of pyramids and temples that were as large and time-consuming as those created by the Mayans indicate a race of people who were strong, intelligent, and willing to work together for a common goal. Very likely, Mayans were interested in their collective society, as well as their own families, and they worshiped their King. Religion was extremely important to them, as has been mentioned. They used their pyramids and other structures as places to worship, and reverence to their gods was a vital part of their daily lives."
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Near-Death Experiences, 2007.
A discussion on the validity of near-death experiences.
1,261 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the topic of near-death experiences. Specifically, the paper discusses the reality of near-death experiences and whether they exist or not. The paper explores how stories about near-death experiences (NDE) have become almost commonplace in our modern culture. The paper further examines how many studies into this phenomenon have occurred and many of them explain near-death experiences as the body's reaction to tremendous stress. The paper discusses how there is much debate about whether they actually exist, concluding that whether they exist or not, to those experiencing NDEs, they are very real.
From the Paper
"The first real written study of near-death experiences occurred in 1926 by Englishman Sir William Barrett. He compiled many experiences he and his wife (both doctors) had seen with patients during their last moments of life. Two researchers note, "Barrett found that in their visions the dying see dead persons who have come to take them away to a heavenly abode. He also found that such visions often occur when the mind of the patient is clear and rational, and that they sometimes portray what the dying do not expect" (Osis & Haraldsson, 1997, p. 18)."
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Islam and Democracy, 2007.
An argument proposing that moderate Islam and democracy are not incompatible.
1,573 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the reactions of the Muslim community to the publication of cartoons with Muhammad in a Danish newspaper. The writer argues that, while agreeing with the view-point that the extremist version of Islam may be in conflict with some of the ideals of democracy, he strongly believes that a moderate version of Islam, is in no way incompatible with democracy. The paper further examines how moderate Islam is practiced by an overwhelming majority of Muslims around the world. The paper further argues that both the violent reaction of some Muslims against the publication of the Muhammad cartoons, as well as their publication in the first place, were examples of insensitivity and intolerance towards the views of others.
Outline:
Introduction
Does Islam Support Terrorism?
Exercising the Freedom of Speech?
Compatibility of Islam with Democracy
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"However, most moderate Muslims argue that this passage is about a specific incident and should be read in the context; they also point out that the Quranic and Islamic teachings about "jihad" and war almost invariably stress upon the concept of a "defensive war." For example, Verse 2: 190 of the Quran says: "Fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you, but begin not hostilities. Lo! Allah loveth not aggressors." ("The Rules of Jihad"--BBC) Some Muslim scholars also believe that the "internal" Jihad--the fight to overcome their own selfish desires--rather than fighting an external enemy is the greater Jihad in Islam."
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Rastafarianism, 2007.
An analysis of the cultural, social and philosophical aspects of the Rastafarian Movement.
2,404 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 17 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the central aspects of the Rastafarian Movement and attempts to examine the links between the various cultural, social and philosophical aspects of the Rastafarian Movement. In particular, the paper describes the historical, cultural and social aspects that have influenced the rise of this movement. The paper emphasizes the influence of 'Ethiopianism' on Rastafarianism.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Methodology
The Rastafarian faith and Ethiopianism
General Characteristics And Beliefs
Social And Philosophical Aspects
Conclusion
From the Paper
"There are a number of estimates of the extent of the Rastafarian movement in the world. One general estimate is that there are approximately between 3,000 and 5,000 Rastafarians in the United States. A problem with the estimate of Rastafarianism is that many individuals who dress or adopt the outer appearance of Rastafarianism are in many cases not true Rastafarians. (Rastafarianism) This is partly due to the popularity that this movement has acquired through its views and music since the 1960's. Worldwide, the estimate of those following the Rastafarian faith is approximately 1,000,000 people. (Rastafarianism) In terms of further significant demographic facts, it is also clear the majority of the members are male. "Traditionally, women have played a very minor role in Rastafarianism," (Rastafarianism) and "Women's role in the Rastafarian movement is at best a subordinate one..." (Barrett, 1997, p.78)"
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Evangelism, 2007.
An analysis of the principles of evangelism, as discussed in Robert Coleman's book, "The Master Plan of Evangelism."
1,018 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 0 sources, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Robert Coleman's book, "The Master Plan of Evangelism," which is considered by many renowned theologians to be the most concise book about the actual ministry strategies of Jesus. The paper carefully looks at how Coleman examines the principles of evangelism, the target audiences and the specific methodologies and techniques that Christians use in evangelism.
From the Paper
"The lesson that Jesus teaches us about evangelism is that this is not a very easy task; rather the act of evangelism must be taken in deliberate action. In order to evangelize, one must first understand the purpose behind such actions, which is to spread the word of God and the Holy Spirit to all. In order to evangelize, one must first find capable individuals who are teachable and can be molded into ideal evangelists and walk them through the steps of evangelism. Only after training these individuals in the techniques of instilling true love and understanding of the Holy Spirit and the Gospel can they effectively evangelize."
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St. Thomas Aquinas & St Augustine, 2006.
A discussion regarding St. Thomas Aquinas versus St Augustine on the responsibilities of the state and the responsibilities of the ruler.
1,914 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the Hebrew Scriptures were produced from the traditions of the ancient Israeli people, and that these scriptures fused moral, along with political injunctions as to how the state should create a just as well as a holy society, and defined the responsibilities of the leaders in relation to the people, as well as defined the citizen's relationship to the state. The paper goes on to say that Christianity, which is derived from Judaism, was spawned during a different political and historical point in Israeli history. The paper reviews how both the theologians St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, when examining the responsibilities of the state, the ruler and the ruled in the Christian world, would also offer two different portraits of this judicial relationship, in attempting to reconcile scriptural prescriptions about correct behavior.
From the Paper
"However, in the Gospel According to St. Matthew, Jesus says: "Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's" (Matthew 22:21) In other words, the purpose of religion is not to concern itself with the worldly affairs of the here and now, but the world to come. Jesus frequently implies that there is a dichotomy between the morals and values of the ruling state and the true values of a very different world above. The second beatitude of the "Sermon on the Mount" is one of Jesus' most famous: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." (Matthew 5:4) The meek that do not rule on earth will rule later on, and the rules that govern the world will be forever altered after the Day of Judgment. St. Paul reinforces this flesh and spirit divide in his Epistle to the Galatians: "For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." (Galatians 5:14) In other words, the true law of the land is spiritual, not the formally codified laws pertaining to ruling a state found in the Hebrew Bible. This is why Paul preaches against Christians observing the rules that Jews were bound by, such as circumcision. Christ had supplanted such old, physical laws. The laws of the world were of less concern than the inner laws of one's spiritual life."
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Experiencing the Hispanic Culture, 2007.
A personal description of a cultural immersion experience with the Hispanic culture.
2,088 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
The writer describes how he/she spent time over a several week period with two Hispanic families and attended several of the functions that are associated with the Hispanic culture; a family event, a church event and a cultural event. The writer reveals that while Americans pride themselves on privacy and personal space, the Hispanic population is connected by the togetherness and crowded conditions that they purposely set up. The writer concludes that the Hispanic culture is about love, celebration and enjoyment of life and asserts that many of us could learn from this.
Outline:
Introduction
The Experience
The Festival
Church
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Anyone who watches the news is aware that the Hispanic population in America has grown to be the largest minority in the country. Every store has signs written in Spanish and English, every food item has instructions in both languages and there are several Hispanic radio and television broadcasts on at all times. There is no denying that the blending of the two cultures is inevitable and it is an exciting prospect."
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Montgomery County, 2007.
This paper discusses the religion and economy of Montgomery County.
1,865 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that Montgomery County was formed in 1779 from Anson County and was named in honor of Richard Montgomery who, in 1775, lost his life at the battle of Quebec in the attempt to conquer Canada. The paper discusses the various prevalent religions in Montgomery County. The paper also looks at the economy and its future prospects.
From the Paper
"Religion is more than theology or issues of faith and belief. It is as well an important aspect of the cultural life of a community. For example, in many cases people belong to the particular denomination that they grew up with in their families, especially so in the past. Because of the strong connection between religion and the community life, religious participation is often strongly associated here with the population group that first brought it here . Examples can include the Lutheran faith, in the case of the population originating from Germany and the Presbyterian faith in the case of Scots and Scots-Irish settlers. This assertion is also sustained by the recent growth of Catholic congregations, due to recent immigration waves of individuals of Hispanic origin."
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Wilson versus Richard, 2006.
A review of Edmund O. Wilson's book 'Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge' and Mathieu Ricard's 'The Monk and the Philosopher'.
1,373 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and compares the work of Edmund Wilson and Mathieu Ricard. The paper takes a look at Wilson's book, 'Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge' and Mathieu Ricard's 'The Monk and the Philosopher'. According to the paper, Wilson believes that science must win out over more romantic understandings of the purpose of human existence. The paper then goes on to discuss how Ricard suggests the possibility of detachment of the mind from the body through the type of philosophical or religious practice that Wilson regards as futile, or at very least, less interesting and useful than science.
From the Paper
"In contrast, to Wilson, Mathieu Ricard offer the more idealistic but perhaps comforting notion that the physical matter of the brain and mind are not synonymous. Ricard suggests the possibility of detachment of the mind from the body through the type of philosophical or religious practice that Wilson regards as futile, or at very least, less interesting and useful than science. Through meditation and achieving a higher sense of consciousness, the mind can control the physical aspects of the human body, suggests Ricard. Ricard believes that there is more to the brain than neurotransmitters and synapses. The human species cannot be subsumed into the sum total of its DNA. "
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The "Spark' of the Sufi, 2006.
A mystical experience debate regarding the Sufi.
1,059 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the 'spark' of Sufism, defined by the Qur'an as that which God placed into man or breathed into man. According to the paper, Sufism is the part of man that desires to return and unite with the Universal Spirit. The paper reports that the origin of the name Sufi is the Arabic word "suf" which means wool, or the Persian word "saf", which means pure.
Outline:
Introduction
Mystical Experience Defined
The Debate Surrounding the Sufi Experience
Neurotheology - Biotheology
The Two Views Debated
Science Provides the Proof
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The work of Syed includes studies that have located the regions of the brain that are stimulated during certain experience. For instance, the middle temporal lobe has been proven to the "linked to emotional aspects of religious experience, such as joy and awe." (Syed, 2006) The lower temporal lobe is stimulated during the "viewing of sacred images such as candles or crosses..." (Ibid) The "juncture of three lobes" or the Broca's region is stimulated when the individual is stimulated through a "response to language". Finally, when the individual enters a state of deep spirituality or mystical experience the region of the brain that finally "quiets down" and signifies that the person has entered the place where they may "feel at one with the universe" is the region of the brain which is called the "parietal lobes". (Syed, 2006)"
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Joshua 24, 2006.
An in-depth look at Joshua, Chapter 24.
2,917 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses Joshua, Chapter 24. According to the paper, Joshua 24 is first of all seen by its commentators as one of the covenant rituals between the God of Israel and its people, which may be included in the series of the covenants made initially by Abraham and then by Moses. The paper reports that the reconstruction of the event in Joshua 24 varies from a perspective that sees it as a historical event signaling important transformations for Israel and a perspective in which it is only a textual expansion of the Deuteronomic texts.
From the Paper
"The origins of the Joshua 24 chapter are therefore much disputed, both as to what regarded the historical context and to the possible interpretations. The conclusions are that the actual tribes involved could have been either the entire amphictyony of Israel, as Delbert Hillers suggests, or the tribes belonging to North Israel in the province of Samaria or a Judaeic province, as Perlitt supposed or, finally as Van Seters puts forth - merely a textual addition to the Deuteronomy work, and addressed rather to the "individual households" of Israel than to the nation as such or to certain tribes. "
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A Tendency toward God, 2007.
A discussion on Man's tendency to lean towards God or some other presence in this world.
1,041 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the natural tendency of human beings to lean towards God or some other force or presence in the world. The paper describes the infinite nature of God. It discusses this concept as it relates to the concepts expressed in quantum physics and then discusses it from the point of view of Christianity and spirituality.
From the Paper
"If God is Mind and infinite, there can be only one Mind. Human beings are turning to it all the time for good ideas. It is logical that human beings would sense and want to know intimately the source of their existence. Religions and rituals have sprung from this natural desire. I believe that all human beings wonder at one time or another about the nature of existence. Some have more confidence that they can eventually understand it than others do, and that accounts for those who seem disinterested. They may have given up, or they think and wonder about God rarely. Or they have come upon an explanation for existence that satisfies them, at least, superficially, but doesn't include a concept of Creator. Even so, these same disinterested people are sometimes "converted" as a result of experiencing God's presence, and they end up turning to a whole new way of life."
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Life and Times of Jesus, 2007.
An analysis of the impact of Jesus on the geographical, political, religious and social environment of his time.
1,256 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the life and times of Jesus, as it maintains that an understanding of Jesus' historical context is extremely helpful, perhaps even essential, to a true understanding of Christianity. It looks at the geographical, political, religious and social environment of Jesus' time period and discusses how these factors contributed to the impact that he had in his time.
From the Paper
"Because the concept of sacrifice was extremely important during Jesus' time, it follows that the concept of forgiveness was equally important. People could ask for forgiveness, and they did not have to engage in personal suffering or sacrifice in order to receive such forgiveness. Furthermore, because God had the obligation to forgive the repentant, so did fellow Jews in the community. This is an aspect that has been incorporated into modern-day Christianity. In fact, forgiveness is not optional in the Christian church, but is taught as a duty for true Christians. For example, according to John Owen, who outlined the basic tenets for Protestant churches, forgiveness was to be given even to those who were cast out of the church. In fact, such persons had a right "to be forgiven both by those who in an especial manner were offended by him, and by the whole church." (Owen, 66). Moreover, Christians have a duty to make forgiveness an active thing, by applying the promises of the Gospel to the sinner and re-admitting him into the church. (Owen, 66)."
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St. Augustine of Hippo, 2006.
This paper discusses St. Augustine of Hippo (354 to 430 A.D.) and his conversion to Christianity.
815 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in 386 A.D., St. Augustine of Hippo experienced a penultimate life-changing event which resulted in his conversion to Christianity and ended his hedonistic lifestyle. The author points out that this conversion to the faith and tenets of Christianity led St. Augustine to attack a number of humanistic and secular organizations, which were very influential in Europe during the latter years of the Roman Empire. The paper concludes that the conversion of St. Augustine literally opened the proverbial door to much human experience and thought in matters of religion and theology and paved the way for many influential religious and philosophical thinkers that followed him.
From the Paper
"In Book 11, Chapter 26 of his Confessions, St. Augustine discusses the concept of time which during the early years of Christianity was viewed as an extension of God Himself. He writes that, "It would appear to me that time is simply an extension, though what it is an extension of I have no idea. I begin to wonder if it is perhaps an extension of the mind itself." It should be noted that without his conversion to Christianity, St. Augustine would never have been capable of such deep thought, for what he is attempting to say is that the power of God extends into infinity with time being a mere extension of His power."
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