The only government that can successfully balance individual and societal needs is a righteous government built on faith in God. . .A society that yearns to be righteous must be built on such ethical values. The very foundation of civilization rests upon the basic principles known as the Seven Noahide Laws given at Sinai. . . Without these laws as a bedrock of government, a society will either have despotism, where individuals’ lives are compromised and possibly abused, or anarchy, where every person pursues his or her own needs without regard for the law.
Suggested Discussion Questions:
1. What is a government built on faith in God? Do we have to understand this literally?
2. According to this text, what creates a sense of community and mutual obligation? Is this present in our society today?
3. To whom do you feel obligated? Why?
Time Period: Modern (Spinoza through post-WWII)