Activity Guide and Evaluation Rubric – Task 2 Comparing two civilizations.

Individually, answer the following questions about the two most important civilizations of the
world. Western civilization and eastern civilization. Also, make five comparisons between the two
of them in every answer.

a) What are the most important social characteristics of the two mentioned civilizations?

Characteristics of western culture

1. Western culture tends to emphasize individual independence and self-expression. People

are free to practice any religion they wish.
2. Western culture is diverse and multicultural.
3. Education in Western culture focuses on individual development, critical thinking, religious
and cultural tolerance, respect for human rights and the promotion of democratic
participation.

Characteristics of Eastern cultures

1. Eastern culture has different levels of society, and people in a higher level of society hires
people from a lower level of society and help them monetarily.
2. Eastern cultures tend to value collectivity and interdependence over individualism.
3. Eastern culture is the self-control and emotional responsibility are highly valued.

b) What are the most important traditions in the two mentioned civilizations?

Eastern culture is very rich in traditions and customs that have been passed down from generation
to generation, here are some of them:

1. Some of the most important religious traditions in Eastern culture include:

• Hinduism

• Buddhism

• Taoism

• Sikhism

2. Tea Ceremony: Tea is a very important drink in Eastern culture and the tea ceremony is a
tradition that takes place in many countries, such as China, Japan, and Korea.

3. Traditional medicine: Traditional Chinese medicine is well known throughout the world for its
natural treatments and healing techniques. Acupuncture, moxibustion, massage and herbal
medicine are some of the most used techniques.

4. Martial arts are an integral part of Eastern culture. They are an art form and discipline that
focuses on self-defense, health, and meditation.
Western civilization how many important traditions that have significantly influenced world
culture.

1. All the festivities of the Catholic religion are celebrated. Christmas is the most representative of
all.

2. Judaism is an Abrahamic religion based on belief in one God and observance of the Torah and
other sacred texts.

3.Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in the United States, Canada, and other Western countries in
thanksgiving for the blessings received during the year.

4. Easter is another important holiday in Western culture and is celebrated in commemoration of

the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

c) What are the principal differences between the two civilizations?

1. Individualism vs. collectivism

2. Political system: Eastern societies have often had more authoritarian and hierarchical political
systems, while Western culture has emphasized democracy and the rule of law.

3. Philosophy and Religion: Eastern civilization is characterized by the influence of philosophies and
religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism a Confucianism, while Western civilization is largely
based on Christianity and Greek philosophy

d) How did the two civilizations conceive religion and spirituality? Diferences and similarities.

Differences

1. The conception of religion and spirituality in Eastern scivilizations has tended to be more
tolerant, pluralistic and focused on meditation, humility, compassion and knowledge than
in Western civilizations
2. Although in the beginning most cultures had polytheistic religions, currently Western
religions are monotheistic (worship of a single god) who transmits his wishes and teachings
through prophets.
3. In Eastern civilization, there is a greater focus on the afterlife, whereas in Western
civilization, the focus may be more on the present life and how to live it in a just and
virtuous way.
4. In Western civilization, the main religion is Christianity, while in Eastern civilization, there
are several major religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism, Taoism, Confucianism,
Jainism, Zoroastrianism and Islam.

Similarities

1. Both East and West, there is a belief in the existence of a supreme being or deity.
2. Both civilizations have a long tradition of spiritual quest and the search for truth and
wisdom through religion.
 3. Both the East and the West, there are sacred texts that are considered a source of wisdom
and spiritual guidance.
4. Both Eastern and Western civilizations have different religions.

e) What is the role of the woman in the two civilizations in the past century and now?
Differences and similarities.

The role of women in Eastern civilization in the last century was complex and varied. In many Asian
countries, women faced discrimination in terms of access to education, employment, and
participation in politics. However, there were also significant advances in the struggle for gender
equality in some countries. For example, in Japan, women began to have access to education and
employment in the 20th century, and today there is a growing number of women in leadership
positions in politics and business. By the way, the 60s and 70s ocurred a feminist movement that
challenged gender inequalities and stereotypes in Western society. This led to significant changes
in legislation and social attitudes, and women began to occupy roles and positions previously
considered the exclusive preserve of men.

Differences

1. In many Eastern societies, religion is an important part of daily life, and may play an
important role in women's lives. For example, in some Muslim societies, women may have
certain restrictions on their freedom of movement and dress due to religious rules.
2. In ancient China, a man could divorce his wife, but she did not have the right to do so.
3. In some Eastern cultures, women may be more limited in their social life and have fewer
opportunities to socialize with men outside their family.
4. In the West, women have had more opportunities to enter the workforce and have
professional careers.

Similarities.

1. Sadly, in ancient times, the wife was not much more than a piece of property owned by
her husband. Women in both civilizations were forced to bear children and take care of the
household.
2. Women have fought for their rights and opinions.
3. Previously women were repressed without having a voice or opinion.
4. In both Eastern and Western civilizations women have fought for gender equality and the
right to education, vote and participate in the workforce.

f) What do you consider are the most important values and failures of every civilization and
why?

The values Eastern civilization:

• Humility
 Harmony
• Respect for family and community
• Moderation
These values should be held by every human being in life, but in Eastern civilizations it is seen
much more, as it helps and motivates people to live meaningful lives and contribute positively to
their communities.

The most important values of Western civilization

• Freedom

• Democracy

• Equality

• individualism

• Spirituality

These are considered the most important values since they have been fundamental in the
construction of Western civilization and have been defended and perfected throughout history.

g) What do you consider are the most important contributions of every civilization to
humanity? Why?

Both the civilizations have been created and researched great contributions to humanity
throughout history, such as:

 Traditional medicine
 literature
 spirituality
 philosophy
 Democracy

Complete five comparisons for each question

a) What are the most important social characteristics of the two mentioned civilizations?
1. Western societies often emphasize the rights and freedoms of the individual. Eastern
societies often prioritize the welfare of the community over individual interests.
2. Traditional Eastern societies may have rigid social hierarchies based on factors like age and
social status. Many Western countries have democratic systems with a strong emphasis on
legal frameworks.
3. Separation of religion from state affairs is a key feature in many Western nations.
4. Many Eastern philosophies emphasize spiritual development and mental well-being.
5. Western civilization has influenced and been influenced by various cultures around the
world. Eastern thought, like Confucianism and Taoism, has had a profound impact on
ethics and philosophy.
b) What are the most important traditions in the two mentioned civilizations?
1. Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter are central to Western tradition. Events like
Lunar New Year, Diwali, and various traditional festivals are central to Eastern tradition.
2. Eastern Civilization: Practices like meditation and yoga hold a deep cultural and spiritual
significance. In Western tradition Events like New Year's Eve celebrations and various
national holidays are important cultural traditions.
3. In Western tradition Events like weddings, graduations, and funerals have established
rituals. In cultures like Japan and China, the preparation and consumption of tea are
steeped in tradition of Eastern Civilization
4. Traditional clothing and ceremonial attire play a crucial role in Eastern cultures. Works of
literature, art, and music form an integral part of Western cultural traditions.
5. Elections, inaugurations, and other political ceremonies are significant events. Ancestor
worship and rituals related to ancestral veneration are important cultural practices in
Eastern Civilization

c) What are the principal differences between the two civilizations?

1. Western thought often emphasizes individualism and linear thinking, while Eastern
thought tends to favor collectivism and holistic perspectives.
2. Western civilization has been historically influenced by Abrahamic religions like
Christianity, while Eastern civilization encompasses a diverse range of religious traditions
including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, etc.
3. Western societies often place a stronger emphasis on equality and meritocracy, while
Eastern societies may have more pronounced hierarchical structures.
4. Western countries tend to have democratic systems, while Eastern nations may have
different forms of governance influenced by historical and cultural factors.
5. Eastern cultures often have a more cyclical view of time, while Western cultures may lean
towards a linear perception of progress and change.

d) How did the two civilizations conceive religion and spirituality? Differences and similarities.

1. Worldview and Philosophy: Western thought often emphasizes individualism and linear
thinking, while Eastern thought tends to favor collectivism and holistic perspectives.

2. Views on Time and Change: Eastern cultures often have a more cyclical view of time,
while Western cultures may lean towards a linear perception of progress and change

3. Religious Dominance: Western civilization has been historically influenced by

Abrahamic religions like Christianity, while Eastern civilization encompasses a diverse
range of religious traditions including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, etc. Social

4. Western countries tend to have democratic systems, while Eastern nations may have
different forms of governance influenced by historical and cultural factors.
5. Structures: Western societies often place a stronger emphasis on equality and
meritocracy, while Eastern societies may have more pronounced hierarchical structures.

e) What is the role of the woman in the two civilizations in the past century and now?
Differences and similarities.

1. Family and Household Dynamics:

Western Civilization: Family structures in Western societies have diversified, with varying
arrangements of marriage, cohabitation, and parenting. The division of household
responsibilities has also become more equitable.
Eastern Civilizations: Traditional family structures are still prevalent in many Eastern
societies, with women often bearing the primary responsibility for domestic duties.
However, there are shifts occurring, particularly in urban areas, towards more balanced
roles.

2. Western Civilization:
Past Century: Women in Western societies have made significant strides in gaining political
rights, including the right to vote and participate in public life. The feminist movements of
the 20th century played a pivotal role in achieving greater gender equality.
Present: Women in Western countries continue to advance in various fields, including
politics, business, science, and the arts. There's an ongoing focus on breaking glass ceilings
and closing gender gaps in leadership roles.

3. Eastern Civilizations:
Past Century: Traditionally, many Eastern societies had more rigid gender roles, with
women primarily responsible for domestic duties. However, in some Eastern countries,
especially in urban areas, women started gaining access to education and employment
opportunities.
Present: Progress varies widely across Eastern civilizations. In some countries, women have
made significant strides in education and workforce participation, while in others,
traditional gender roles persist.

4. Education:
Western Civilization: Women in Western societies have had increased access to education
over the past century. Today, there is near-universal access to primary and secondary
education, and women are well-represented in universities and professional programs.
Eastern Civilizations: Access to education for women in Eastern societies has improved
over time, but disparities still exist, particularly in more traditional and rural areas.

5. Political Representation:
Western Civilization: Women in Western countries have made strides in political
representation, although there is still work to be done. Many Western countries have seen
female leaders at the highest levels of government.
 Eastern Civilizations: Political representation for women in Eastern countries has been
more limited historically, but progress is being made in some nations. Countries like India,
Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh have had female heads of state.

f) What do you consider are the most important values and failures of every civilization and
why?

Values of Western Civilization:

1. Individual Liberty: The emphasis on individual rights and freedoms has paved the way for a
more inclusive and diverse society.
2. Cultural Pluralism: Western societies have demonstrated an ability to embrace and
integrate diverse cultures, leading to rich cultural exchanges.
3. Advocacy for Human Rights: The promotion of human rights and social justice is a
cornerstone of Western societies.

Values of Eastern Civilization:

1. Harmony with Nature: Many Eastern philosophies emphasize living in balance with nature
and respecting the environment.
2. Spiritual Enlightenment: Pursuits of inner peace, wisdom, and spiritual realization are
central in many Eastern traditions.
3. Community and Family Bonds: Strong familial ties and communal support systems are
highly valued in Eastern societies.

Failures of Western Civilization:

1. Colonialism and Imperialism: Western powers have historically engaged in colonial

ventures that exploited and oppressed indigenous populations.
2. Environmental Degradation: The pursuit of industrialization and economic growth has
sometimes come at the expense of environmental sustainability.

Failures of Eastern Civilization:

1. Political Repression: Some Eastern nations have experienced periods of authoritarian rule
and limited political freedoms.
2. Economic Disparities: Rapid modernization in parts of Eastern civilization has led to wealth
gaps and urban-rural disparities.

g) What do you consider are the most important contributions of Western civilization and
Eastern civilization to humanity? Why?

Eastern Civilization:

Spiritual Wisdom and Philosophical Traditions: Eastern philosophies like Buddhism, Taoism, and
Confucianism have provided profound insights into human nature, ethics, and the pursuit of inner
peace.
Medicine and Holistic Health Practices: Traditional Eastern medicine, including acupuncture, herbal
remedies, and yoga, has influenced holistic approaches to health and well-being.

Meditative and Mindfulness Practices: Techniques for mental and spiritual development, such as
meditation, have been embraced worldwide for their benefits on mental health and well-being.

Cultural Contributions: Eastern arts, including calligraphy, ceramics, martial arts, and traditional
music, have enriched global cultural expressions.

Architecture and Urban Planning: Eastern civilizations have developed unique architectural styles
and urban planning principles that continue to inspire modern design and city planning.

Western Civilization:

Scientific Advancements: The scientific revolution and subsequent innovations have transformed
the world, leading to improved healthcare, technology, and quality of life.

Democratic Governance: The establishment of democratic systems has influenced political

ideologies globally and provided models for self-governance.

Literary and Artistic Heritage: Western literature, art, and music have enriched human culture and
provided insights into the human experience.

Globalization and Trade: Western nations played a significant role in the development of global
trade networks, fostering cultural exchange and economic growth.

Human Rights Advocacy: Western ideas of human rights and social justice have had a profound
impact on global movements for equality and freedom.