Whatever Happened to Justice Ch 2

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Questions and Answers

What does the Koranic story illustrate about Pharaoh's attitude towards a Higher Authority?

He acknowledged the miracle but chose to ignore it. (correct)

He sought forgiveness from Allah.

He openly worshipped a Higher Authority.

He accepted his role as a servant to Allah.

What is the core message conveyed in both the Koran and the First Commandment?

Authority is derived from science.

Absolute power leads to rebellion.

Violence is never justified in the name of authority.

There should be no other gods before a Higher Authority. (correct)

How does Uncle Eric contrast the nature of government with that of a Higher Authority?

Government is composed of divine beings.

A Higher Authority transcends human limitations. (correct)

Government is inherently more trustworthy than one higher authority.

Both authority types are equal in influence.

What emotional response does Uncle Eric suggest might arise from having no Higher Authority?

Depression and fear. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a lesson in the Koran's narrative about Pharaoh?

Those who deny a Higher Authority face consequences. Signup and view all the answers

Which commandment emphasizes the concept of a Higher Authority in Judaism and Christianity?

I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt not have strange gods before me. Signup and view all the answers

What does Uncle Eric believe is necessary to balance human governance?

An acknowledgment of a Higher Law. Signup and view all the answers

What concept is fundamental to the American tradition according to the content?

A Higher Authority exists beyond human authority. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best represents Thomas Paine's beliefs?

He thought morality could be understood through observation and logic. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following Founding Fathers is noted for his personal belief in a Biblical God?

George Washington Signup and view all the answers

What did Thomas Jefferson and other American Founders refer to when mentioning the Higher Authority?

Nature's God Signup and view all the answers

What did John Quincy Adams suggest about American political life?

It is governed by the laws of nature and God. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between God and human laws as presented in the content?

Divine law precedes all human institutions and government. Signup and view all the answers

What was Thomas Paine's notable contribution to American independence?

His pamphlet COMMON SENSE. Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, how do many today view Thomas Paine?

As less known compared to other Founding Fathers. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Higher Authority in American Founding

American founding principles rely on a Higher Authority and Higher Law, superior to human authority.
This concept is often obscured by modern American culture, making it unfamiliar to many.
Founders like Jefferson and Washington linked to this concept with references to Nature's God or a personal God.

Different Perspectives on Higher Authority

Jefferson and other founders often alluded to "Nature, and of Nature's God"
George Washington's actions demonstrated belief in a personal God intervening directly in human affairs
Thomas Paine envisioned a more mechanistic view of a higher law governed by reason.
Paine asserted that obeying natural law is equivalent to following God.
Thomas Jefferson showed leanings towards a similar worldview to Paine

Historical Examples and Significance

The Declaration of Independence incorporated this principle.
Key historical figures such as Thomas Paine, considered a vital founding figure advocated for Higher Authority.
Clarence Thomas (Supreme Court Judge) alluded to John Quincy Adams's views, confirming the historical prevalence of this concept.

Religious and Philosophical Contexts

Religious texts such as the Quran, emphasize a higher power above human authorities
The moral compass of the religions are directly tied to the authority of the higher power.
The Bible, through the Ten Commandments emphasizes a prohibition on idolatry and subservience to a higher power.
In essence, major world religions agree on the existence of a Higher Authority.

Importance of Higher Authority

The concept acts as a counterbalance to merely human authorities like governments
Emphasizes that human authorities are flawed and subject to error.
The presence of a higher authority inspires hope and provides a crucial check against potential tyranny.

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Description

Explore the concept of Higher Authority and Higher Law in American founding principles. This quiz covers perspectives from key figures like Jefferson, Washington, and Paine, highlighting their beliefs and implications in historical context. Test your understanding of how these ideas shaped the foundation of the United States.