[Pooja Gupta]

I am struck by the major changes that occurred during the Qin through Tang and Song Yuan eras after reading the questions and researching the related information. Particularly during the Song era, which lasted from 960 to 1279 CE, neo-Confucianism flourished and civil service tests were instituted. These changes had a significant effect on Chinese society and influenced the formation of the "late empire," as it is now known. The development of neo-Confucianism, which emphasized the importance of self-cultivation and moral rectitude, was a key feature of the Song period. This philosophy had a significant impact on Chinese society and was instrumental in shaping the political and social institutions of the time. Moving on to the Yuan period, which was characterized by Mongol rule from 1271 to 1368 CE, we observe a different type of change. While the Mongols were not the first nomadic people to conquer large parts of China, their rule represented a period of foreign dominance in the country which was surprising to me.  I look forward to learning more about this fascinating and complex history in the weeks to come.

[Pooja Gupta]

I am amazed to learn that the unique geography of Japan, China, and Korea played such a crucial role in shaping the development of their cultures, economies, and politics in ancient times. It was very informative to see how their current declining populations are presenting both challenges and opportunities for these countries. As I read the articles, I found it quite fascinating to see the different ways that countries are dealing with declining populations.  The village of Nagoro in Japan and their response to declining populations due to aging and migration was that the residents have created dolls that resemble former residents and placed them throughout the village, which is a unique way to preserve memories. In South Korea,  the podulation declined in rural aread is due to migration to cities and a declining birth rate. Finally, China also faces challenges due to declining populations, including a shrinking workforce, increased healthcare costs, and economic uncertainty. At the same time, declining populations present opportunities for economic growth. However, China must also address the environmental concerns caused by its increasing use of coal-burning power plants to ensure a sustainable future. Asian countries are grappling with the complex issue of balancing energy needs with environmental concerns. Japan is facing criticism for its plans to build new coal-burning power plants despite the risks to the environment. In contrast, South Korea has taken a step towards reducing pollution by shutting down a quarter of its coal-fired plants over winter. Meanwhile, North Korea is facing an environmental crisis due to widespread deforestation. Finally, China is at a "tipping point" as it tries to address the environmental impact of its rapid industrialization while also dealing with declining populations.  It was very informative to see how their current declining populations are presenting both challenges and opportunities for these countries. I am wondering why more focus isn't placed on finding sustainable solutions to address these declining populations.

[Pooja Gupta]

1.     Can you use historical debate in your class, or have you ever used it before? In what way? (We would love to learn from your experience or ideas on implementing this!)

I have never used a debate in my class as I teach Physics to freshmen, which just takes a lot of time to teach the basics. But I think it would be fun if I could ask students to think about famous physicists and debate over the topic of whether there should be a patent for groundbreaking technology or not.

2.     Scenario: You found out that your father has broken the law, and he knowingly broke this rule. What should you do? (Please respond from the perspective of your school - Confucianism, Daoism, Mohism, Legalism)

As a Confucianism, if my father had broken the law, I would follow filial piety first and ask him what his thoughts were and why he took such a action. Then, I will follow the virtues of Confucianism, I would ask my father to follow confucius teachings and follow righteousness. I would stand by my father.  If he has to go through the trial if the law broken has really harmed someone, I will follow righteousness which is considered a higher virtue. 

[Pooja Gupta]

As a kid growing up in India, we were amazed by Bruce Lee, Jackie Chen, and Jet Li movies dubbed in Hindi which were made in Hollywood. Chinese Martial Arts found a permanent home in America thanks to these artists. Karate kid remains one of my favorites. This also leads to karate, martial arts, kung fu, etc schools in the US. Through these movies, other Chinese cultural traditions, teachings, rituals, and festivals also Americans came to know more about it. The martial arts also being taught by the US military and police officers generated a lot of interest in the culture. Video games gave a new life to the spread of Chinese culture and symbols.  Comics, TV dramas, music, and Anime also became popular over the years to further the interest in overall oriental culture.  

Now if we talk of early school of thought, I think US education system is influenced by confucius school of thought. Education is considered as a tool to instill moral values and create human beings with good character. 

 

 

 

[Pooja Gupta]

Hi! My Name is Pooja Gupta. I teach Physics at a high school in Southern California. I wanted to join this course to learn about the history of Asian countries. I have few asian students in my classes and wanted to know more about the culture to realte it to them and bring it in my classroom. I am excited about learning historical, geographical and current information of China, Japan and Korea and make my connections to history of India. I am also hoping to bring the knowledge from this course in my classroom in some way. I teach physics and is open to ideas on how to implement cultural knoweldge in my curriculum standards. i am looking forward to this course starting from today.

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