Rome And China Dbq Analysis

Rome and China, from about 200 BCE to 100 CE, developed technology. Though Rome and China both recognized technology as an essential part of their society, the Romans believed that technology was below the aristocratic elite, and the Hans did not. The first group of documents implies that technology comes from the benevolent government. The writers of these documents are most likely vying for a place in the government. The second group, two documents from Rome, suggest that technology is not worthy to be used by a true gentleman. The writers of these documents, most likely, did not know how to utilize technology, and were protecting themselves. Group three, comprised of government officials, is suggesting that technology is not only efficient, but beautiful as well. These writers were most likely exaggerating slightly, but are probably less biased than the two previous groups. There is an obvious need for another group of documents; the …show more content…
First, a document written by Cicero, a Roman political leader, says that “Vulgar and unbecoming to a gentleman are all the jobs hired workers take on, whose labor is purchased rather than their skill. All craftsmen spend their time in vulgar occupations (Doc 5).” This shows, contrary to Plutarch, that technology is below a true gentleman, but is necessary. Cicero probably had no idea how to use this new technology in his civilization, so he is probably trying to protect himself. Seneca, a philosopher who was an advisor to Emperor Nero, wrote document 7. He says, “Tools for the crafts were [not] invented by wise men (Doc 7).” This also shows a necessity for technology, but it is not for the wise and exalted people of Rome. Seneca is probably trying to protect himself just the same way Cicero is, so the positive attitude towards technology in Rome probably involves more people than just the craftsmen, as evidenced in Document