The term “China ancient culture” is often employed in comparison with “China modern culture”, meaning the culture of the traditional, classic China before the full-scale introduction of Western influences. And historians tend to use the Opium War of 1839~1842 as a watershed dividing the two. Over history, China never ceased exchanging with other cultures, and had assimilated many influences from various neighboring countries, especially those coming via the Silk Road. But these are still deemed part of China ancient culture. It is the Western influences that almost turned China on its head since the mid-19th century, and that distinguish China modern culture from China ancient culture.
China Recluse Culture
References to yinshi (隐士, recluses) an interesting but somewhat strange group of elites in Chinese history, can be found in many historical records. A yinshi recluse refers to an intellectual who opted to lead a life distant from politics, even though his talent and qualification could well secure an official post for him.
China Ancient Inventions
The best-known four inventions of ancient China were designated by Joseph Needham (1900~1995), a sinologist renowned for his research on the history of Chinese science: papermaking, compass, gunpowder, and printing techniques, all of which are deemed of unrivaled influence on world civilization.
China Elite Culture
Elite culture is often used in comparison with folk culture. It is the culture created, transmitted and shared by high level intellectuals of a society, reflecting their aesthetic tastes, values, and social obligations. Elite culture is also called “high culture”, as the elites were often the privileged (economically, politically, or spiritually) group.
