COUNTRY OVERVIEW & CULTURAL CONTEXT
What was the previous name of Myanmar?
Burma
Who was U Nu?
Burmese political leader/ The first Prime Minister/Intellectual/Writer of "On The Three Evils"
What tree did U Nu used to symbolized the natural wealth of the Burmese country?
Padaythabin tree
Why are Burmese families usually identified as "close-knit"?
Because the act of an individual can impact the perception of the entire family.
Why respect for elders is important in Burmese society?
Elders have wisdom and lots of life experiences.
What are the two major intellectual traditions influenced U Nu's thinking?
Western Political Ideas/Theravada Buddhist Philosophy
What are the three evils mentioned on U Nu's Speech?
Greed, Hatred, and Ignorance
What country colonized Myanmar that was mentioned in the discussion?
Great Britain/British
If a Burmese student learns the Burmese script, what Indian languages script did it originate from?
Pali and Sanskrit
What is the primary purpose of the U Nu's speech?
Moral warning/political reflection
Human society was split into two classes, what are these?
Haves and Have-nots
What is Samsara?
Buddhist concept explains suffering as a repeated cycle cause by desire.
What festival marks the end of of Buddhist Lent (Vassa)?
Thadingyut (Festival of Lights)
What position did U Nu assigned to himself in relation to tradition and modern governance?
Moral reformer
What are the three inevitables we cannot escape from?
Old age, disease, and death.
Yama Zatdaw was based on?
Indian Epic, Ramayana
What festival involves throwing water publicly and symbolizes purification and renewal
Thingyan Water Festival
What is U Nu's ultimate vision for the Burmese society?
Morally disciplined society/Guided by Buddhist ethics/ Democratic ideals
Fill in the blank
"The poorest of the poor wants to become rich; the rich want to become richer, and the process goes on ________."
ad infinitum
As a result of class exploitation, the poor had to resort to what actions?
Evil ways like stealing, looting, and prostitution.