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Silk Roads: Past, Present and Future
The Silks Roads of the Past offer Insight into the Developing Global Challenges and Opportunities of Today
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This course sits at the junction between markets and culture and delves into an interdisciplinary examination of each. The historic Silk Roads contributed immensely to the early development of world economic systems and cultural exchange between the east and west that influenced funcamental understandings that were carried forward an dremain influential thousands of years later.
An understanding of the important technological, cultural, philosophical and material transfers that occurred and the influence on future trade and cultural development enable students to better understand the foundations in international relationships today and the theories that germinated projects like the One Belt One Road Initiative.
This course will examine the history and discovery of trade patterns, cultural interactions, religious transfer, artistic expression and political influence the historic Silk Road and Maritime Silk Road as well as the modern Belt and Road Initiatives.
We will also examine relevant historic and contemporary theories such as the Heartland Theory and String of Pearls Theory that help people to understand the strategic importance of modern projects in terms of economic and political power. This course is offered virtually.
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Requirements for prospective students
• Course instruction is in English, no other language is necessary though other languages can be useful
• No prior experience or education in this field is required.
• Students will investigate trade patterns and their cultural relevance
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• Students will experience working in multicultural environments and formally presenting information.
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• The course will enhance students research capabilities as well as understanding of the complexity involved in understanding ancient history
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Topics include:
- Nomadism and transcient markets
- financing methods
- Religious exchange
- Political Dynastics
- Modern Parallels and Geopolitical Considerations
• Recommended for students of history, markets and trade, communications, international studies and relations, religion and arts