Print this page Exploring China: History, Culture and Global Power

This course explores China’s long and complex history, from its ancient philosophical foundations to its rise as a modern global power. We examine key traditions such as Confucianism and Daoism, major dynasties and cultural developments, and the political transformations of the 20th century. The course concludes with an exploration of contemporary China, offering insight into its economic growth, global role and future direction.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE OUTLINE

Introduction to Ancient China: The Zhou Dynasty & Early Philosophies

• The rise of Confucianism and Daoism
• Key philosophical ideas and their influence on Chinese society.

The Tang Dynasty: China’s Golden Age of Culture and Literature

• Political and cultural developments of the Tang dynasty
• The flourishing of Chinese poetry, art, and literature

The Mongol Invasion and the Rise of New Dynasties

• Impact of the Mongol Empire on China
• The establishment of the Yuan Dynasty
• Transition to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The Fall of the Qing Dynasty and the Rise of Modern China

• The fall of the imperial system and the founding of the Republic of China
• Key figures in early 20th-century Chinese politics.

Deng Xiaoping & China’s Economic Transformation

• Deng Xiaoping’s reforms and the shift towards a market economy
• China’s growth into a global economic superpower.
• The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Xi Jinping's era

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Understand the evolution of Chinese philosophy, from Confucianism to Daoism and their lasting cultural impact.
• Examine the rise and fall of Chinese dynasties, including major historical milestones and cultural achievements.
• Analyze the influence of political changes, such as the Communist Revolution and Deng Xiaoping’s economic reforms, on modern China.
• Evaluate China’s contemporary challenges, including population control policies, economic growth, and global expansion through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative.