CSTU 101 Western Culture Background To The Assignment
Cstu 101 Western Culturebackground To The Assignmentas You Read In Ch
Assignment: List at least 3 achievements of the Romans and explain how each of them expressed the pragmatism of the Romans. Your discourse must indicate that you have an understanding of this value. If you include sources, cite them in current APA format. This assignment must be 250–300 words and must include the word count in parentheses.
Paper For Above instruction
The Roman civilization is renowned for its remarkable achievements that have left an indelible mark on history. Central to their accomplishments was a pragmatic approach to problem-solving and innovation that reflected their worldview. This pragmatic ethos is evident in their engineering marvels, legal innovations, and military strategies, each exemplifying the Romans' practical mindset.
One of the most iconic achievements of the Romans is their development of advanced engineering structures, particularly aqueducts. These aqueducts exemplify Roman pragmatism by effectively addressing the practical need for reliable water supply in urban centers. The aqueducts were ingeniously designed to transport water across great distances using gravity alone, demonstrating a practical understanding of physics and engineering principles (Lancaster, 2004). The utility and durability of these structures underscored their focus on functionality and long-term solutions rather than mere aesthetic appeal.
Another significant Roman achievement was their legal system, especially the codification of laws in the Corpus Juris Civilis under Emperor Justinian. This legal framework was pragmatic in establishing clear, accessible laws that governed diverse aspects of daily life and commerce. It prioritized social stability, justice, and administrative efficiency, which were essential for maintaining a vast empire. The adaptability of Roman law to different circumstances highlights their pragmatic approach to governance—creating laws that are functional and serve practical needs (Mellinkoff, 2019).
The Romans’ military strategies also reflect their pragmatic worldview. They developed disciplined and flexible armies equipped with innovative tactics and technology, like the use of fortified camps and coordinated legions. These strategies allowed them to adapt quickly to new threats and terrains, securing their empire’s vast territories (Lendon, 2013). Their pragmatic approach to warfare was crucial for their expansion and protection, emphasizing effectiveness and utilitarian outcomes.
In conclusion, the Romans’ achievements in engineering, law, and military strategy embody their pragmatic worldview. Their focus on practicality, efficiency, and solving real-world problems directly contributed to their enduring legacy. Understanding this pragmatic ethos provides deeper insight into how the Romans effectively managed their empire and influenced subsequent civilizations.
Word count: 290
References
- Lancaster, L. (2004). Concrete and the Roman Architectural Revolution. Cambridge University Press.
- Mellinkoff, D. (2019). The language of law and legal procedure. Little, Brown.
- Lendon, J. E. (2013). Imperial Armor: The Roman Military System in Perspective. Yale University Press.