#393 — Is History Repeating Itself?
Making Sense with Sam Harris
Deep Dive
Why did Simon Sebag Montefiore initially study history?
He studied history at Cambridge University and later went to the Soviet Union as it disintegrated, which he considered the best training ground for a historian.
What historical event made Sam Harris feel like history was intruding into his life?
The event was 9/11, which made him realize that anything could happen at any time, marking the end of a post-historical period of normalcy.
What does Simon Sebag Montefiore consider the exceptional period in history?
He refers to the period from 1945 to around 9/11 or the election of Donald Trump, characterized by a stable liberal world order and international cooperation.
Why does Simon Sebag Montefiore believe liberal democracies are facing a crisis?
He attributes the crisis to a loss of cohesion, solidarity, and common values within societies, which he refers to as the loss of 'asabiyah'.
What role did America play in the spread of liberal democracy according to Simon Sebag Montefiore?
America's victories in World War II and its influence set a standard that many new states emulated, even if they weren't fully democratic.
What is the significance of the Temple Mount according to Simon Sebag Montefiore?
The Temple Mount is the most intensely revered piece of land for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, and any conflict there could ignite a global catastrophe.
How did Jerusalem become a holy city for the three Abrahamic religions?
Jerusalem became holy through the successive revelations of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, each building on the holiness of the previous religion.
What was the impact of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem on Jewish religion?
The destruction led to the development of a new Jewish religion based on prayer in synagogues rather than sacrifices in the Temple.
How did Christianity separate from Judaism according to Simon Sebag Montefiore?
Christianity separated after the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD, as many believed God had withdrawn his blessing from the Jews, leading to a new revelation in Christianity.
What role did the conversion of Constantine play in the spread of Christianity?
Constantine's conversion in the 4th century aligned Christianity with power and empire, making it a dominant force in the Roman Empire.
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