St. Augustine's Political Philosophy
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary assertion made by St. Augustine regarding the existence of God?

  • Creation alone proves the existence of God.
  • Science provides evidence of God's existence.
  • Understanding of God comes only through philosophical reasoning.
  • One must believe first in order to appreciate God. (correct)

According to St. Augustine, what distinguishes the Heavenly City from the Earthly City?

  • The Earthly City seeks material wealth, unlike the Heavenly City which values spiritual happiness.
  • The Heavenly City thrives on self-love, while the Earthly City promotes love for others.
  • The Earthly City is formed by self-love, whereas the Heavenly City is centered on love of God. (correct)
  • The Heavenly City is larger and more populous than the Earthly City.

How does St. Augustine view the role of the state in relation to God's authority?

  • The state is independent and should not be influenced by religious belief.
  • The state serves as an alternative to God in moral decision-making.
  • The state is a divine institution meant to support God's purpose. (correct)
  • The authority of the state is absolute and not subject to any higher power.

What is a key responsibility of government in St. Augustine's perspective?

<p>To guide people in their journey back to a relationship with God. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher's ideas are recognized by St. Augustine as having a consciousness of love in governance?

<p>Cicero (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does St. Augustine suggest as necessary for political organizations to survive?

<p>Encouraging citizens to live virtuous lives focused on the common good. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does St. Augustine's view of obedience to state authority differ from secular views?

<p>Obedience is respected as it is linked to divine sanctions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the implication of promoting the common good according to St. Augustine?

<p>It aligns with and promotes the glory of God. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the state as described in the content?

<p>To help people journey back to the Father (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to St.Augustine, what is essential for justice to be possible?

<p>A Christian state that adheres to God's will (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does St.Augustine imply about the relationship between the state and the church?

<p>The state is mandated by God and should cooperate with the church (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does St.Augustine redefine justice compared to Plato?

<p>Justice means conforming to the divine order and duties assigned (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of justice in a Pagan state according to the content?

<p>Only relative justice is possible due to a lack of belief in a monotheistic God (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does sharing and concern for others signify in the context of the City of God?

<p>An expression of love and virtue that aligns with divine order (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does St.Augustine assert about the individual's actions in relation to God?

<p>Actions should reflect one’s duties towards God's creation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does St.Augustine believe about the nature of true justice?

<p>True justice requires an alignment with God's will (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

St. Augustine's Two Cities

The concept of two contrasting groups in society: the earthly city, focused on self-love and worldly desires, and the heavenly city, focused on love for God and others.

Earthly City

The city focused on self-interests and worldly pleasures. This concept describes society's focus on earthly pursuits rather than spiritual values.

Heavenly City

The city focused on love for God and others. A society motivated by spirituality and love contrasted with self-interest and material pursuits.

State/Government Role (St. Augustine)

The government's responsibility is to guide citizens towards a life devoted to God and the common good, promoting the virtue needed for social order.

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Divine Institution (State)

The state, in St. Augustine's view, is established by God to correct human flaws and promote peace and order.

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State Authority Respect

Respect for state authority is crucial for societal peace and protection of citizens' rights and property, supported by divine sanction.

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Relationship State and God

The state's power is subservient to God's ultimate authority. State actions must align with and support a path towards God.

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Cicero's influence on Augustine

Cicero's emphasis on love as a key factor in government influenced St. Augustine's ideas of a government with a consciousness for goodness and love towards others.

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St. Augustine's view of the State

St. Augustine believed the state's purpose is to help people return to God by establishing a just society that aligns with divine law.

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State's religious mandate

The state, according to St. Augustine, should be guided by religious principles and not be separate from religious institutions.

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City of God

A state where people prioritize the well-being of others and live according to God's principles.

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Justice in St. Augustine's view

Justice is fulfilling one's duties and giving what is due to others, and it is possible in the context of God's rule; doing God's work.

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Justice in a Pagan State

Pagan states can only achieve relative justice, not true justice because it lacks a universally recognized monotheistic view.

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State's role in a Christian society

St. Augustine's concept of a state's role is based upon the belief that the State is part of the higher society, the Kingdom of God.

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Relationship between state and church

St. Augustine advocated for close cooperation between the state and the church, with the state accepting religious guidance.

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Justice as a virtue

Justice, for St. Augustine, is a virtue that embodies concern for others and acting in accordance with God's will.

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