Theme Reflection

November 13, 2007

Development and Interaction of Cultures

Religion- We discussed the development of the following belief systems in connection with the development of a woman's and man's role in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism in ancient China and India. In Hinduism the ideal characteristics of women and men developed through famous stories like the Ramayana. It was told that men were supposed to be handsome and strong while women were supposed to be beautiful and completely devoted to her husband. In Buddhism, Buddhist women were able to escape their normal domestic lives to become a nun. Women's status increased. (Ben Zhau)

Neolithic vs. Paleolithic: We also discussed the development from a Paleolithic culture to a Neolithic culture and lifestyle. In Paleolithic times there was very little technology and it was a nomadic society. (Hunting and gathering) However, after the idustrial revolution, the Neolithic society was formed. There was an increase in technology, job specialization, trade, and FARMING.

For the future:

As we begin to discuss our next time period (600 BCE - 600 CE) we learn that there is an immense amount of cultural diffusion through art in Asia. Many different kinds of art styles are discovered and spread. We also learn that there will begin to be more mathematical and scientific discoveries, advances, and developments. Cultures will drastically change because of this.