Intercultural communication on the territory of Eurasia: historical and cultural heritage of the Great Silk Road

Abstract

The article shows that many modern scientists believe it was trade that became the prime mover of consistent humankind development. In addition to the exchange of resources, the exchange somehow implied not only material values, but also spiritual ones. Terms from another language were assimilated and transformed; the increased need for knowledge of other languages gave rise to a new specialization, such as translators. Even such subtle spheres of culture as religion were subject to exchange, with ideals and motivation making the foundation for the emergence of other, sometimes very original beliefs. This exchange subsequently led to such a form of the religion spread as missionary work, which made it possible to speed up the propagation of religious ideas over very vast areas. Trade routes became just well-established roads and a convenient route for spiritual expansion. The article considers the Great Silk Road as a channel for the transmission and exchange of cultural and the most significant values of the peoples of this region.