America is a diverse and multinational country with a versatile culture. However, it is difficult to deny the uniting role of Christianity, and in particular, the Ten Commandments. According to Marsden (2018), the Commandments present the common values of the American population. The author confirms that despite ethnic diversities, people inherit the same Judeo-Christian heritage and support the moral principles built upon the Ten Commandments (Marsden, 2018). Therefore, their role is to determine people’s behavior, values, and relationships.
The Ten Commandments also reflect norms and traditions essential in American culture. For example, the Commandments “Honor thy father and thy mother” and “Thou shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” imply respect to parents and people around. According to Marsden (2018), the Commandments are where the Bible and reason meet, which means that they dictate the fundamental truths and regulate relationships in society. Therefore, the major impact of the Ten Commandments on American culture is the unification of people and the representation of important moral principles and traditions.
According to Exodus, the Ten Commandments were revealed to Moses and the people of Israel, which makes Israelites different in the world. At the same time, the Ten Commandments and their role in America influence the image of the country and make it distinct as well. For example, according to Epstein and Walker (2018), the display of the Commandments on governmental properties demonstrates their significance in the national heritage. Moreover, the authors state that the recognition of God and His commandments have always been reflected in the decisions of the American people (Epstein & Walker, 2018). Therefore, what makes the country different is how these fundamental principles are respected and applied in different spheres, such as law. The role of the Ten Commandments in America demonstrates its traditions and provides the moral basis for the thoughts and actions of people.
References
Epstein, L., & Walker, T.G. (2018). Constitutional law for a changing America: Rights, liberties, and justice (10th ed.). CQ Press.
Marsden, G.M. (2018). Religion and American Culture: A brief history. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing.