Points for Emphasis

1. It is important to emphasize distinctions between the cultures discussed in this chapter since the diversity of Pacific Asia is a central theme of the course. It may be useful to note that our characterizations of "Western" and "Eastern" culture must accommodate a wide range of ethnic traditions within each category.
2. China has had a great impact on Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Each country borrowed and adapted Chinese culture and forms to suit their needs. China was also the conduit of other influences, such as Buddhism, but it is important to note that these "other influences" were themselves affected by China - signified in the process of transmission.
3. Indian culture was an important influence in early Southeast Asian culture as evidenced in writing, religion, law, dance, and art. Yet the Indian forms did not fill a cultural void; they were selectively adopted by the Southeast Asians for their own purposes.
4. Diverse religions have influenced different parts of Pacific Asia. Buddhism spread throughout East and Southeast Asia. Hinduism spread into Southeast Asia, and, although it was largely supplanted by Islam, it left a strong imprint on Southeast Asia. Islam spread through maritime Southeast Asia and is a powerful factor in modern politics. Christianity has had the most impact in the Philippines and Korea.
5. The historical and contemporary geographical characteristics of East and Southeast Asia, and their interactions, including identification of all countries, major cities, landforms, rivers, as well as political and economic linkages are vital to the development of the Pacific Basin.

 

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