If there are significant differences, can these differences be attributed to natural or logical factors?
What were the great civilizations of the ancient world and how do they contribute to our modern culture? Are there ancient civilizations which had a significant influence on our social order today? These questions give rise to a vast array of other questions. How are ancient civilizations defined? Can concepts such as ancient 'civilization', 'culture', and 'society' be meaningfully applied beyond a certain relatively brief period of history? Is what we know as 'ancient Western civilization' such a unique development of the Hellenistic civilization that it is inappropriate to make comparisons between it and other civilizations, such as Chinese, Indian, and Islamic? If there are significant differences, can these differences be attributed to natural or logical factors? We may be familiar with the Western and Eastern civilizations such as the Greek civilization, the Roman culture, the Egyptian society, the Sumerian civilization, the Arabian society, and the Islamic culture. These civilizations are traditionally emphasized in world history materials and textbooks. Their works of art, literature, and science are usually the subject of study in courses in world literature, art, music, drama, and technology. Many schools and universities offer programs in the language, philosophy, and literature of these ancient societies, which contribute to our social heritage. We also have world areas studies departments specializing in the various aspects of the ancient societies.