A. Describe TWO characteristics of the cultural landscape shown in Image 2. B. Explain how the spread of Islam from its culture hearth is an example of expansion diffusion. C. Explain how the global spatial pattern of Buddhism differs from the global spatial pattern of ethnic religions such as Judaism. D. Explain a likely economic effect of pilgrimages on the location shown in Image 2. E. Explain the degree to which religion may contribute to devolutionary pressures within the location shown in Image 1.

Answer 1

A. Two characteristics of the cultural landscape shown in Image 2 are the presence of minarets, which are tall towers typically found near mosques, and the use of Arabic script on signs and buildings, indicating a strong Islamic influence in the area.

B. The spread of Islam from its culture hearth in Mecca and Medina is an example of expansion diffusion because it has spread through a combination of contagious diffusion (through trade and conquest) and hierarchical diffusion (through the conversion of rulers and elite classes, who then spread the religion to the general population).

C. The global spatial pattern of Buddhism is characterized by a concentration in East and Southeast Asia, with significant populations in countries like China, Japan, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. In contrast, the global spatial pattern of ethnic religions like Judaism is more dispersed, with adherents found in various pockets around the world, primarily where populations of Jewish descent have migrated.

D. A likely economic effect of pilgrimages on the location shown in Image 2 is an increase in tourism revenue. Pilgrimages to important Islamic sites, such as Mecca and Medina, bring in large numbers of visitors who spend money on accommodations, food, transportation, and souvenirs, providing a boost to the local economy.

E. Religion may contribute to devolutionary pressures within the location shown in Image 1 if there are conflicts between different religious groups within the area. These conflicts can lead to political instability, social divisions, and potentially even calls for separatism or autonomy based on religious differences. Additionally, religious beliefs and practices may clash with state laws and policies, further fueling tensions within the region.