The Rest Is History 46. Culture Wars
Apr 26, 2021
Dive into the captivating history of culture wars from Ancient Rome to contemporary times. Discover how financial disputes shaped societal conflicts and the ongoing struggle for cultural identity in England. Explore the roots of these wars, linking them to ancient theological debates and modern censorship issues. Unpack the emotional ties to statues and the significance of commemorative imagery. Finally, uncover how the civil rights movement intertwined with Christian values, influencing today’s cultural landscape.
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Culture Wars Defined
- Culture wars are about arguments over values and identity.
- These arguments, like those in Ancient Rome, are recurring throughout history.
Culture Wars as Sublimated Theology
- Culture wars, exemplified by Bismarck's Kulturkampf, involve tensions between secular and Christian authority.
- They're essentially "sublimated theology," often unrecognized as such by one side.
Altar of Victory Dispute
- The Altar of Victory in the Roman Senate became a focal point in the clash between pagan and Christian values.
- This exemplifies the non-negotiable nature of some issues in culture wars, like removing symbols of the past.