Original scientific paper

Ecumenical Imperialism

Alen Tafra ; Pula, Croatia

Abstract

The basic assumption of this paper is that the term ‘imperialism’ can usefully be applied to pre-capitalistic societies. On the pragmatic and spiritual level, the most important stage of ecumenic imperialism unfolds during period of Hellenism which begins with the conquests of Alexander the Great. Moreover, that was the period of proto-globalization when the formation of multicivilizational society and universal humanity became possible. Hence, it is necessary to recognize positive aspects within pothos that drives imperialistic expansions – like the broadening of cultural horizons and the creation of the pragmatic ecumene. The alternative to utopian core of globalization in the Ecumenic Age – just as today – can be reduced to particularism and isolationism. Considering the fundamental importance of ancient imperialism for modern philosophies of history, short analysis of these mainly eurocentric discourses is given.

Keywords

globalization; imperialism; eurocentrism; Ecumenic Age; Axial Age; G. W. F. Hegel; E. Voegelin; Polybius; Aristotle; romanticism

Hrčak ID:

41066

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/41066

Publication date:

22.4.2009.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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