Roman Values In America

As a nation America is unique, different economically, culturally, and politically than many other nations throughout the world. However, many of our own ideas and values are derived from or based on those from the Ancient world, including Rome (Fiero, 2011). Roman values have influenced many nations throughout time, leading the way and forging foundations for many other civilizations, including our modern world. Looking at the first two Roman virtues, Veritas (truthfulness) and Honestas (respectability) I would say that they go hand-in-hand. One can not be respected in society if they are dishonest. Americans have several euphemisms that demonstrate just have valued these two virtues are in our society. Mottos such as: “honesty is the

As a world leader much of our authority has arisen due to industriousness and pride that the American people have worked for and although we are now more service technology based, rather than manufacturing Americans still take pride in their hard work and industriousness. Foresight, wisdom, refinement, and cultured are terms falling under the Roman virtues of Prudentia and Humanitas. In America today a college education is almost required in order to live in terms of having a “good life”. Educational systems throughout the U.S. strive to ensure that students are educated and challenged; constantly changing exposing students to different cultures and values once unreachable without technological advancement. Gravitas and Pietas, are both Roman virtues that are closely related, focusing on a sense of responsibility, purpose, and respect for the political, social, and religious factors in a society (Fiero, 2011). These too can be seen in modern America. American are expected to abide by or respect the laws of government whether federal, state, or local as well as acceptable social behavior much of which can be defined by other Roman virtues, specifically, Comitas (courtesy), Firmitas (purpose), Severitas (self-control), and Clementia (mercy) (Fiero, 2011). People who do not observe these virtues, as defined by the Romans, are viewed as rude, uncaring, or even