1) In terms of American cultural beliefs, values and behaviors, what are three to five important ideas presented this week? Put them into your own words, don't just quote the PowerPoints or the readings. (Can you) explain how they are illustrated in any of the visual materials in the presentations?
• American cultural beliefs, values and behaviors presented this week focused mainly on the puritans (17th century) and the enlightenment (18th century) era. The Puritans brought distinct religious and theological views. They believed everything was a result of god’s grace. In order to gain salvation one must be entirely good and always stay in god’s favor, as god is the supreme ruler while human beings are all sinners. Puritans also held the bible in the highest regard, in
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Though theories from the Enlightenment era are probably more popular compared to Puritan beliefs today, considering the culture is more liberal. Similar to the Puritan mindset, there probably are several religious groups which seek to reform a church and believe that life is lived per god’s grace and will. For example, some cults go to great extents to demonstrate their personal beliefs. Enlightenment, on the other hand, gave people a sense of religious freedom considering they were no longer compelled to support or follow a specific religious practice. These values tie more closely with how religious is today in the 21st century. Where the people choose their religious beliefs. Personally, my religion (Sikhism) is a combination of both of these eras. As while we believe in one god exists, there is also the belief that god is unbiased and does not treat any human differently, so like the Enlightenment era god does not interfere. Though, like the Puritans, we attempt to set a good example and follow the good path god would have presumably wanted us to follow regardless if it comes with no