Greek Contributions To Western Civilization Essay

The Greeks have had a huge impact on the development of western society. Greek philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle have been exceptionally important figures in the world. Homer’s contributions to literature are enduring in both “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey.” Certainly, the conquest of the known western world by Alexander the Great was a major influence in the region as well. However, one of the greatest and enduring contribution of Greece towards the Western world is found in their forms of government. While each had their limits, the three forms of government also offered benefits. In fact, the three systems of government found in the Greek city-states: monarchy, oligarchy, and democracy work best when combined into one system. Greece had a terrain that was rough and isolate, which prevented the various cities from uniting in to one common form of government. Over time, the culture of Greece viewed the world “as divided into two opposing halves—Europe and Asia.” According to the Greeks, the Asians were not a strong as they were and therefore suffered from tyrants. This might the be reason why the Greeks political system “was radically different” then that of Persia. Instead of a united kingdom, the Greeks organized into …show more content…
This would give a balance of power between a monarch to enforce day to day operations, the Council to debate on new laws or actions, and the people who can elect or re-elect both. With this model, the possibility of government getting bogged down by endless and tiresome debates with everyone present is alleviated. The chance of a monarch turning into a tyrant is minimized by the democratic election, and the power of the Council of Elders. The overwhelming influence of money and position corrupting the Council is also assuaged by the democratic vote, and the division of day to day