Early Human Societies
What was a key characteristic of Paleolithic social organization?
Small, mobile groups with little social hierarchy.
Which major philosophical school emphasized the importance of the relationship between humans and the natural world?
Daoism
Which ancient civilization is known for its early use of cuneiform writing?
Mesopotamia.
What concept in Hinduism refers to the belief in the soul’s journey through successive lives?
Samsara.
What is the key practice that all Muslims are required to follow?
The Five Pillars of Islam.
What agricultural development marked the beginning of the Neolithic Revolution?
The domestication of plants and animals.
Which religion introduced the concept of "Nirvana" as the ultimate goal?
Buddhism.
Which major river was crucial to the development of Egyptian civilization?
The Nile River.
Which Buddhist practice involves meditation to reach enlightenment?
Mindfulness or meditation.
Which event marks the migration of Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina?
The Hijra.
How did the spread of agriculture impact social structures?
It led to the rise of more complex societies with hierarchies.
What common idea did both Confucianism and Hinduism share regarding societal structure?
The importance of social roles and duties.
What was one key feature of the first urban civilizations?
The development of centralized governments.
How did Mahayana Buddhism differ from Theravada Buddhism?
It viewed the Buddha as a divine figure and emphasized helping others achieve enlightenment.
What was one reason for the rapid spread of Islam during the early caliphates?
The use of trade routes and military conquests.
Which of the following best describes the shift from foraging to settled agriculture?
A change from a nomadic lifestyle to the establishment of permanent settlements.
Which belief system proposed that divine rulers’ legitimacy came from heaven’s approval?
Confucianism in China with its Mandate of Heaven concept.
Which early civilization is associated with the construction of large pyramids and monumental structures?
Ancient Egypt.
What role did the concept of "karma" play in Hinduism and Buddhism?
It determined an individual's future circumstances and the cycle of rebirth.
What is the primary religious text of Islam?
The Quran.
What environmental consequence is most closely associated with early agricultural practices?
Soil erosion and depletion due to over-farming.
How did early religious traditions reflect or perpetuate social hierarchies?
They often justified the authority of elites and the division of labor by associating spiritual roles with higher status.
What was one factor that contributed to the collapse of early civilizations like Mesopotamia?
Environmental degradation or invasions from neighboring peoples.
How did Confucianism influence social behavior in ancient China?
It stressed the importance of filial piety, social harmony, and respect for authority.
What distinguishes Sunni from Shia Islam?
The disagreement over the rightful successor to Muhammad as leader of the Muslim community.