what is european? (7)

Coimbra, 2007

Europe is known as the origin of several politic ideologies such as democracy, capitalism or socialism. Free thought, individualism or humanism are other principles that have their roots in Athens or Rome. However, neither Greek nor Roman civilisations can be described as Europeans. Both were Mediterranean cultures with centres of influence in Asia Minor, Africa and the Middle East. Historians have founded some European ideals back in the Renaissance period. The Enlightenment and the French Revolution contributed to the demand for freedom, equality, fraternity, democracy, self-determination, equal opportunities for all, clearly defined government powers, separation between the powers of church and state, freedom of the press and human rights. However, European history is also characterised by the existence of the inquisition, absolutist regimes, colonial imperialism, Nazism, censorship or intolerance.