Foundations of Eastern Civilization

By: Craig G. Benjamin, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Craig G. Benjamin

Length: 23 hrs and 22 mins

Publisher's summary

China. Korea. Japan. Southeast Asia. How did Eastern civilization develop? What do we know about the history, politics, governments, art, science, and technology of these countries? And how does the story of Eastern civilization play out in today's world of business, politics, and international exchange?

Over the course of 48 ambitious lectures, take a grand journey through Eastern civilization to study everything from the material economy of day-to-day life to the political and religious philosophies that would bind these cultures together for thousands of years. While China is home to some of the great moments in world history and a major focal point for this course, you'll also take several extended forays into Central and Southeast Asia to build a comprehensive picture of Eastern civilization.

"To truly understand the modern world, it is essential to know something about the many extraordinary contributions Eastern civilization has made," Professor Benjamin says. "Simply put, it is not enough to know just the 'Western' half of the story any more-both Eastern and Western are critical to understanding our present and our future."

Now is your chance to fill in the other half of the story. You may be surprised to realize that all of us have been students of Eastern civilization, even if we have not been aware of it. Filled with captivating stories and surprising details, this course will open up an entirely new world for you as it unfolds the story of Eastern civilization.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2013 The Great Courses (P)2013 The Teaching Company, LLC

AN ENTERTAINING, EDUCATIONAL LISTEN

I rarely write reviews but on this book I feel I must. Craig Benjamin and the Foundations of Eastern Civilization kept me listening from the first word to the last and I wanted more! First, let me start by saying I am a huge consumer of anything Western Civilization. I know nothing about China, Japan or anything Asian. In fact about half way through this book I finally sat down and opened a map to find out exactly where Korea was. Craig captivated me and helped me see what I have been missing.

He walked me through pre-history right up to the Cold War. He introduced me to thousands of folks with names I still can not say, offered me stories that kept me amused and sparked a desire to get more information about Eastern Civilization. I was concerned about his accent when he started, but it added authenticity to the story. His speech was just the right speed, his enthusiasm was contagious and he wove a narrative that kept bringing me back.

The subject is huge! There is just so much information to take in! But Craig was simply amazing and I am so thankful I bought this book to listen to. If this was a written book, I doubt I would have gotten to the third chapter. Craig, held my hand, sat me down and told the tales. It was like my granddad was sharing our own family history. Craig, job well done!

Lots and lots and lots of information

Any additional comments?

I love the Great Courses for driving. I do a lot of 10 and 15 minute trips and it chops up fiction too much to really enjoy it, but these courses are best taken in small doses. I would never have the time and will to read all these lectures but I enjoy them a lot in spoken teaspoons.

wonderful, comprehensive introduction

wonderful, comprehensive introduction to a vast subject area ... excellent lecturer, archaeology to present day

Very interesting

I don't know much about eastern history and this was a very interesting narration. I wish we had access to a syllabus so we would know how names are spelled.

Spectacular

Absolutely spellbinding to learn about eastern history with the added dimensions of economic impact, climate impact, etc. heightened my awareness and makes me want to learn more. Thank you.

The East Comes Alive

There are many resources that examine Chinese history and Chinese civilization, but this is one of the rare resources that cover China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and the other nations and civilizations of Central Asia.

Everything from great leaders, philosophies, economics, religions and their influences from and to other parts of the world and among themselves. It is a deep, rich course leaving you wanting more.

great synopsis of Eastern civilisation

Craig G. Benjamin weaves historical texts, archaeological finds, myths, and personal stories to tell an amazing story.
my only critic is his subtle bias to capitalism over other forms of economic models, specifically his comment that 'the Chinese change from private ownership of farm-land to collective ownership caused famine' rather than the incompetent officials dictating the farmers to kill birds and perform other tasks that caused inefficiencies as well as a swarm of crop eating insects (that no longer had bird predators).

Very good series

A very good series that marches through the historical events of the three major nations of East Asia. the only problem is that the lecturer absolutely butchers a lot of the names. I know that it can be hard for someone that doesn't speak the language, but he absolutely misses on some fairly well known names.

The web of Asia

This course draws comparisons and differences between the major Asian countries of the past to the present. Will out making judgments but looking at causes and effect.

Phenomenal Course

This is the best audio book/lecture I have listened to. The lecturer does a great job of tying together the many wide ranging topics to give a broad holistic overview of Eastern Civilisation. I would highly recommend.