
Using the name Philistine to refer to an uncultured or undiscerning person is really a false application. The ancient Philistines were distantly related to the Greeks and were in fact highly civilised and technologically advanced people.
Our view of them is probably coloured by the fact that the main source of our knowledge about them comes from the Bible which merely depicts them as opponents to the nation of Israel. The biblical writers had no interest in Mediterranean culture, only in portrayal of the Philistines as the pagan others.
One small interesting detail on technology is recorded in the Bible, apparently the Philistines had a superior ability to make iron weapons and tools, something the Israelis lacked, a factor which the Bible mentions as giving the Philistines an advantage in dominating their neighbours.
I'll stop now. Sorry about the lecture. I love history.