ABSTRACT
The Talmudic conception of mankind is that of a unity, deriving its character from a common origin and a common destiny. Throughout Talmudic times, the Jews lived under the domination of foreign imperialisms: in Palestine under the Romans and in Babylonia under the Parthians and neo-Persians. In Talmudic times, the Jews suffered heavily from the oppression of Roman imperialism. The social process frequently brings individuals into a position where they exercise power over the lives of others. The Talmudists developed a system of democratically constituted town councils which were charged with the administration of local municipalities. The Talmudic conception of man implied a reciprocal responsibility from individual men and nations to the collective human community. Implementing the ideal of its mission, the Judaism of the early Talmudic period proselytized extensively throughout the pagan world.
