What is Asia?

:
Introduction to
Asian History and
Civilizations
Mr. Ed De Vera
Social Science: Asian History
First Quarter
“What is Asia?”
Do you think Asians and
non-Asians have the
same sentiments and
valuing about Asia?
Why?
 Perspectives in Studying Asia

• Asian-centric vs. Eurocentric (Western)

perspective
– Eurocentric – history written by the West;
idea that Asian civilization and ways of life
are only by-products of Europe; Europe as
point of reference
– Asian-centric – emphasis on the Asian
perspective/ history written by Asians; Asia is
the point of reference
• Greater tradition vs. Small Tradition
To correct century old stereotypes labeled among
Asians (Filipinos) by the Western powers.

Studying our
Studying the
history in the
history of
light/lens of our
people
Asian nations
(pantayo) thus in the
working for our light/lens of
advantage. Asians.

Filipino Centric Viewpoint Asian Centric Viewpoint

 Asian
history in
Universal
the eyes Mind
of Asians.
Asian Collective
Centric All Unconscious
Viewpoint cultures
are
equal.
Cultural Relativism
The Origin of the
Word Asia
Asia Minor (Turkey)
Illiad: prevents eastward
movement
 “Asu”
Place of the Rising Sun
“East/Orient”
“Ashiya”
 Matteo Ricci
• He was the Italian missionary who is
believed to be the one who introduced the
word Asia to the Chinese language
“Ajiya”
Synthesis:
 “As Asians, it is essential to
know the history, civilizations,
culture, even the origin of the
of our continent so that we may
realize the reasons why we
should be proud of our Asian
heritage.”
Synthesis:
 “In studying the history of
Asia, it is suitable to use an
Asian-centric view or the
perspective that emphasizes
Asia’s contribution to its
civilization and to the world’s
civilization as well.”
 Synthesis:
 “The origin of the word “Asia”,
like that of Europe, was derived
from the European point of view.
The same goes for the labels Near
East, Middle East, and Far East,
which are all terminologies
created by the European point of
view.”
 Fast Facts
 Largest continent
 Most populated continent in the world
 Regionally divided into 5 regions
 Home of most religions in the world
 Birth place of the three oldest of
civilizations in the world
 Abode of the world’s greatest
conquerors
 Fast Facts
 Center of development and
industrialized countries in the world
 Boastful for its great architectures
 Known for its world class tourists
destinations
 Rich in biodiversity