Depend on you ( follow the instruction) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Depend on you ( follow the instruction) - Essay Example The initial impetus that was received from these kings and queens was required for the religious structures to attain strength after which it could fashion itself into a self-sustaining entity. A promotion of these religions also served important functions for these monarchs as it led to unity in realms other than religion in most cases. This effect was partially due to the emergence of alternative centres of power but it was also because of the individual philosophies that were a part of these religions. These philosophies may not have survived in the absence of the state sponsorship that it received but since the monarchs of this age extended their patronage to these religions, there was a certain kind of unity that was forced upon the people as a result of the royal patronage. Buddhism managed to create a certain kind of unity between sections of Hinduism, which was till then the main religion of the Indian subcontinent. The different philosophical views that existed in Hinduism became united owing to the fact that Buddhism was on the ascendant due to the patronage that was extended to it during the reign of Asoka, who reigned over India. Buddhism represented a challenge to traditional ideas of Hinduism which advocated the existence of the caste system and had many rituals that were present for the sake of upholding the structure of caste. With more egalitarian structures, Buddhism held great attractions for the downtrodden of the Hindu society. If not for the patronage extended by Asoka, Buddhism may not have survived the opposition from Hindu power structures. Asoka’s patronage, however, enabled there to be unity in the political realm. People of different religious affiliations came together because of the philosophy of peace that Buddhism preached, which was taken up by Asoka. The spread of the message of peace that Buddhism preached was largely owing to the patronage of Asoka and this fostered a

Analyze and assess the significance of Francis Bacon's New Atlantis Essay

Analyze and assess the significance of Francis Bacon's New Atlantis - Essay Example The New Atlantis may not be considered as a work of literature comparable to the classics that were produced during that time. However, the Baconian or scientific method which it asserts on is the most important content that has been serving as the framework for the succeeding experiments and practical scientific activities. It is apparent that without the Baconian method explicitly outlined, The New Atlantis would certainly be less relevant as a book of science. Neither would it even be significant as a literary work of fiction. The focal point that Bacon wishes to portray in The New Atlantis is that if his scientific method is applied scientists, it would be possible to construct a society similar to that in a fictional land which he called Bensalem. Such a society as described by Bacon is actually a utopia. Nevertheless, it clear that what he wants to impress on the readers is that a utopian society is possible for as long as the scientific method that he is proposing would be put to practice in all fields of science, be it natural, physical, or social. It is apparent in the novel though that even as Bacon insists on a certain framework for establishing scientific truths, he never goes to the extent of negating the very essence of the supposed antithesis of science: religion. In fact, even as Bensalem’s inhabitants and leaders follow a precise scientific method, they retain their belief in the supernatural. As a consequence of adhering to a system of studying scientific truths and applying these in governing Bensalem, the inhabitants in this society are described by Bacon to be very contented with their lives. The problems of hunger and strife common in societies in Europe are virtually non-existent; a utopia no less. In the world outside Bensalem, people have to work in order to obtain the most basic necessities. Satisfied with their economic conditions, they no longer desire to earn more than what they are already getting. A Bensalem inhabitant who welcomed the sailors said that â€Å"he must not be twice paid for one labor† (Bacon, 2007, p.7). Since he is already paid by the State for the service he offers to the guests, he explains that he should no longer accept anything from the guests themselves. Such gesture may be construed as honesty but such attitude would certainly not be developed if want and misery exist in Bensalem. It is clear that the society of Bensalem as described by Bacon is governed by what may be considered as an ideal welfare state. There are no private businesses mentioned all throughout the story. It is the state that ensures that the people are provided for according to their needs. The office governor of the House of Strangers articulates this when he tells the sailors that â€Å"ye shall also understand that the strangers’ house is at this time rich and much aforehand; for it hath laid up revenue these thirty-seven years, for so long it is since any stranger arrive in this part; and th erefore take ye no care; the State will defray you all the time you stay† (Bacon, 2007, p.11). It is evident here that Bacon’s utopian Bensalem bears the semblance of the society dreamt by the early socialists. However, it is also important to point out that this kind of society would not be possible if its level of economic advancement has not been bolstered by an accurate system in discovering scientific tru