Assignment 1

Muhammad Abdullah
S2024376029
Question # 1
What is Colonization? How did the world become colonized
by a small number of people who came from Europe?
Colonization is when a powerful country takes control of other lands and
people, forcing its own government, culture, and values onto them to gain
resources and labor. European colonization started around the 15th century,
with countries like Spain, Portugal, France, and Britain expanding their
empires across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They were able to take over
large, resource-rich areas by using new navigation skills, advanced weapons,
and strong military tactics, even though they were often outnumbered.

The main reasons for colonization were to gain wealth, resources, spread
religion, and increase political power. Colonizers claimed they were
"civilizing" native people, seeing themselves as superior. Local societies
were often pressured to use European languages, follow their laws, and
adopt their customs. Colonization had major, lasting impacts that changed
economies, cultures, and governments worldwide. The effects of this period
still shape power and society today, especially in countries that were once
colonies.

Question # 2
We got our freedom in 1947. Why do we still act like
slaves and think that the west is superior to us? And why
are most parts of the world still going through the effects
of Post-Colonization?

We gained physical freedom in 1947, but not freedom of the mind. Many
countries became independent from foreign rule, but the effects of
colonization are still strong in our way of thinking and culture. During the
colonial period, people were taught to see Western ideas, technology, and
government as better than their own, while local cultures and values were
seen as less valuable. This feeling of being "less" is still present because
Western ideas and standards are dominant in education, media, and
technology, making people think Western culture is the best.
Countries that were once colonies often struggle to find pride in their own
identity and culture. They are also economically dependent on former
colonial powers, needing them for trade, financial aid, and technology
(Pakistan always financial aid from IMF), which adds to the belief that the
West is superior (Pakistani People wanted to settle in the Europe). Global
media also promotes Western culture, which influences young people’s
thinking. To overcome these effects, there needs to be a focus on valuing
local knowledge, preserving cultural heritage, and building economic
independence. This would help people from former colonies regain
confidence in their own cultures and abilities.

Question # 3
Do you agree with Hassan Nisar’s point of view or not?
Back your answer with proper reasoning.
I completely agree with Hassan Nisar’s view on the need for cultural pride
and breaking away from a colonial way of thinking. For too long, the idea
that Western culture is better has hurt the self-esteem of people in countries
that were once colonies. Western influence, especially in technology and
education, is valuable, but it shouldn’t make us ignore or look down on our
own heritage and values. Nisar likely believes we should find a balance—
learning from Western progress but not feeling less important or
disconnected from our own culture.

Our history and traditions are full of wisdom, spirituality, and strength, and
understanding these values can help us build a future with both progress and
pride in our culture. Instead of following Western ways without question, we
can take useful ideas and fit them into our own lives while also celebrating
our own achievements. Nisar’s view pushes us to respect our roots because
West takes 200 years to translate out books to become West, so we can
keep our identity without feeling less than anyone else.

Question # 4
John M. Hobson presents 5 claims or myths about
Eurocentric History in his book as shown in the video. How
did the speaker refute those claims/myths in the video?
Write a brief rejection of each claim?
Dr. Zaman challenges this by explaining that many important advancements
in science, math, and philosophy actually began in Islamic, Indian, and
Chinese civilizations, long before Europe used them. This knowledge reached
Europe through translations and trade, proving that intellectual
achievements are not limited to one region.

Myth of Morally Superior Civilization:

The speaker questions the idea of European moral superiority by pointing out
the exploitation, violence, and oppression involved in colonial expansion.
These actions show that "civilizing missions" were often about self-interest
rather than high moral standards.

Myth that Democracy Originated Solely in the West:

Dr. Zaman highlights that democratic ideas were present in other cultures
long before Western democracy. In Africa, Asia, and the Middle East,
traditional systems encouraged community participation and accountability,
which are key democratic values.

Myth of the Industrial Revolution as Uniquely European:

The speaker argues that Europe’s Industrial Revolution relied heavily on

resources from colonies and the forced labor of enslaved people. This
development was not only due to European innovation but was largely
supported by exploitation abroad.

Myth of Western Progress and Universal Standards:

Dr. Zaman criticizes the belief that Western progress should be a model for
everyone. He supports alternative approaches based on compassion, social
responsibility, and ethical principles found in non-Western traditions,
especially Islam.

These counterpoints show that global history involves contributions from

many civilizations, and the idea of Western superiority ignores the rich,
interconnected nature of human progress.

Question # 5
Summarize the lessons you’ve learnt from the video
lecture. Also try to elaborate on how we can change the
thinking that has been embedded in our minds that we are
inferior?

Dr. Zaman’s video lecture teaches valuable lessons about rethinking our
views on culture and ethics. A key lesson is to be careful of Eurocentric
history, which often ignores the contributions of non-Western civilizations.
Dr. Zaman highlights Islamic principles such as social responsibility,
compassion, and justice, showing that these values offer a strong moral
foundation that doesn’t rely on Western ideas.

To overcome feelings of inferiority, we need to learn more about our own

history and appreciate the achievements and values in our culture and
religion. By taking pride in our traditions and seeing their importance today,
we can build self-respect and confidence. Some practical steps include
adding local history and values to education, promoting media that
celebrates native culture, and building communities that appreciate their
own strengths. In this way, we can create a society that respects itself and
others without feeling less than any other culture.