Ancient Civilizations and the Myth of Divine Control: The Birth of Greek Autotheism, Eugenics, and Homosexuality

Introduction to Ancient Mycenae and the Early Greeks

When discussing the origins of the Myceanaeans and the early Greeks, it is important to recognize that these ancient people were not as culturally advanced as their neighbors, particularly in the African regions. Myceanaeans were, as Tamim Ansary described them, primarily pirates and barbaric raiders, plundering goods from other civilizations to build their own empires. Some scholars debate the inclusion of Minoans, suggesting that the Myceanaeans were not as civilized as some might believe.

Autotheism: The Claim to Divine Control

The ancient Greeks developed a belief system known as Autotheism, which was different from the spiritual beliefs of other African civilizations. Unlike the Africans who viewed their gods as forces of nature or honoured ancestors, the Greeks believed in a pantheon of gods with dominion over all aspects of the earth and the cosmos. Their ignorance was remarkable, as they believed in a universe confined to the Earth, disregarding the vast expanse beyond.

One prominent example is the belief in the divine right of kings, as seen in Alexander the Great. He believed himself to be a divine successor, with the Divine Right to dominate and conquer the known world, enslave people, and elevate himself to rule the universe. However, his actions were far from those of a benevolent leader: he murdered two of his friends, converted religious practices at whim, and destroyed entire cities out of a perceived divine wrath. Alexander’s reign is a testament to the hubris and eugenics-driven ideology of the time.

Eugenics: Supremacy of a Single Ethnic Group

The Greeks were also the originators of eugenics, another misguided belief that one ethnic group was superior to all others. They viewed non-Greeks as barbarians and primitive, suggesting that African gods were merely a guise for Greek deities teaching primitive people. This belief implies a lack of respect for other cultures and a sense of superiority. For instance, Homer’s accounts of Africa, while problematic, underscore the Greeks’ tendency to view non-Greek peoples as inferior or primitive.

Homosexuality: The Ideology of Gay Love

Homosexuality was another aspect of Greek society that stands out. Unlike other civilizations, such as the Egyptians, where homosexuality was seen as an abomination, Greeks embraced it as a part of their cultural identity. The Greeks were the first to formalize the ideology of "gay love" and lesbianism. However, this acceptance did not extend to all: Greek society was strict in its standards and often punished violations of the social order.

Contrasting Viewpoints from Other Civilizations

In contrast to the Greeks, other civilizations like Kemet (ancient Egypt) had different approaches to divine kingship and societal control. Akhenaten, for instance, believed himself to be a mediator of the gods and initiated a religious reform, demonstrating a more nuanced understanding of divinity. He transformed the religious landscape to center around a single god, eliminating the hierarchies that plagued Greek society. Unlike Alexander the Great, Akhenaten’s reign is marked by attempts to destroy and re-establish truth, rather than propagate falsehoods.

Comparison of Leadership and Social Structures

The Phoenicians and the Chaldeans had rich histories of innovation in commerce, trade, and religion, while the Natufians were at the forefront of agricultural development. However, the Myceanaeans stumbled into civilization, with no prior knowledge of advanced societies. Their beliefs about the gods mirrored their social structures: a rigid and hierarchical system focused on domination and control.

In conclusion, the birth of Greek Autotheism, Eugenics, and Homosexuality were deeply rooted in a lack of cultural humility and a desire for dominance. This period in history is a stark reminder of the pitfalls of pride, prejudice, and the abuse of power. By understanding these historical narratives, we can better appreciate the diversity of human experiences and the importance of cultural exchange and mutual respect.