Part of: Tamil Nadu Gk set 33

Who called the Tamils the last surviving classical civilisation on Earth, because the Tamils have preserved substantial elements of their past regarding belief, culture, music and literature despite the influence of globalization?

Category: Tamil Nadu Gk

Hint: Consider the field of expertise of the individuals named.

Correct Answer: C) Michael Wood.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The question pertains to the recognition of the Tamil civilization as a classical civilization that has preserved substantial elements of its past despite the influence of globalization. The individual who made this statement is Michael Wood, a British historian and broadcaster.

Michael Wood is well-known for his documentaries and books that explore various historical and cultural topics. His work often focuses on the history and cultural heritage of different civilizations, including the Tamil civilization. Wood has highlighted the unique aspects of Tamil culture, such as its literature, music, and belief systems, which have remained intact over centuries.

The term "classical civilization" refers to a society that has a long-standing tradition of cultural, literary, and artistic achievements. The Tamil civilization, with its rich history dating back thousands of years, has maintained many of its traditional practices and cultural elements, making it a notable example of a classical civilization.

Globalization, the process of increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, has affected many cultures around the world. However, the Tamil civilization has managed to preserve its cultural identity and heritage, which is why Michael Wood has referred to it as the "last surviving classical civilization on Earth."

It is important to distinguish Michael Wood from other individuals with similar names, such as Michael Johnson (a track and field athlete), Michael Faraday (a scientist), and Michael Douglas (an actor). Each of these individuals is known for their contributions in their respective fields, but they are not associated with historical or cultural studies of the Tamil civilization.

Understanding the contributions of historians like Michael Wood is crucial for recognizing the significance of various civilizations and their cultural heritage. This knowledge is particularly relevant for students preparing for competitive examinations that include questions on general knowledge and cultural studies.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Michael Johnson is a former American track and field athlete, not a historian. He is known for his achievements in sprinting and would not be recognized for making statements about Tamil civilization.
  • Option B: Michael Faraday is a renowned British scientist known for his contributions to the fields of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. He is not associated with historical or cultural studies of Tamil civilization.
  • Option C: Michael Wood is a British historian and broadcaster who has made significant contributions to the understanding of various civilizations, including the Tamil civilization. He is known for his documentaries and has recognized the Tamils as the last surviving classical civilization on Earth.
  • Option D: Michael Douglas is an American actor and filmmaker, not a historian. He is known for his work in the film industry and would not be recognized for making statements about Tamil civilization.

Mnemonic: Wood for history, not science or film.

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