World History Discussion Questions

In this assignment, you will engage in a discussion about how
China’s adoption of Buddhism and Rome’s adoption of Christianity have affected
modern American culture. You may be tempted to think that events of our distant
past have no real relevance in today’s modern world. However, this assignment
encourages you to take a closer look. Compare the Greco-Roman, or Western,
cultural tradition with the Asian, or Eastern, cultural tradition during the
first millennium. Then look for its influence on Eastern and Western cultural
traditions in modern cultures.

      • Briefly describe the way you perceived the
        differences between the East and the West before taking this course.

      • Based on the information you have learned in
        this course, what, in your opinion, are the fundamental differences between
        Eastern and Western cultures of the first millennium?

      • How does knowing the history of the East and
        West change your perceptions of modern differences between the two regions?

      • Choose an aspect of modern culture, such as New
        Year’s celebrations or predominant architectural styles, and analyze how: the
        aspect of culture is perceived in Eastern and Western cultural traditions.

        • Eastern and/or Western cultural traditions have
          influenced the aspect in modern cultures.