CVSP 202 Final, Spring 2008

CIVILIZATION SEQUENCE PROGRAM Final 202 Thursday, June 9 Time: 2 hours => Please, argue & analyze the issues logically, relevantly, & systematically = Write your [D-number & not your name ERICAN UNIVERSET; LIBRARY en 0” BEIRUT he deh Answer two questions of the following: 1. Discuss in detail Ibn Khaldoun’s theory of history, showing: a. The condition and psychology of man in the “state of nature,” as well as the reasons and mechanisms of entering into civilization. b. How can you explain the role of ‘asabiyya in the passage from the state of nomadism to that of civilization? c. Compare Machiavelli with Ibn Khaldoun on the subject of how best to rule successfully? Evaluate. 2. “Nor did he realize that by taking this decision he weakened himself, alienated his allies and those who had thrown themselves into his arms, and strengthened the church by adding so much temporal power to its existing spiritual power, which gives it such authority.” (Machiavelli) a. Explain quotation and elaborate on Machiavelli’s point of view. b. Compare to Dante’s approach towards the emperor and papacy. c. What is Luther’s position towards the church? fe) The place of faith “has been taken by an unbearable bondage of human works and laws, until we have become servants of the vilest men on earth, who abuse our misfortune to serve only their base and shameless will.” (Luther) a. Explain this quotation and put it in the context of Luther. b. How would both Asal & Salaman react to the concept of laws? c. Would following the laws in Dante’s perception lead to salvation? Explain. 4. If there is one thing to be learnt from CVSP 202, it is that faith is not a simple concept. It is sometimes understood as blind trust, and sometimes thought of as an overwhelming spiritual experience. a. Comment on this statement while basing your argument on Dante and Luther. b. How would Ibn Tufayl understand faith? : ce. Is there room for faith in Machiavelli's Prince? Explain. EBICAN USIVERSE LIBRARY OF BEIRUT