Ancient China: Mandate of Heaven & Confucius

A key principle in Confucianism, focusing on respectful conduct towards those who are older, emphasizing the importance of hierarchy and cultural traditions.

Confucius believed that individuals in positions of power should be kind, honest, wise and trustworthy. This emphasizes a moral and ethical leadership.

Confucian philosophy influenced Chinese government by establishing a system of merit-based selection for officials through rigorous exams. This ensured officials were qualified and capable.

Laozi is recognized as the founder of Daoism, a philosophy emphasizing living in harmony with nature and following the natural order of life.

Daoists believe that individuals should not seek power, wealth or fame. They should focus on living in harmony with the natural world and cultivating inner peace.

Yin and Yang represent two opposing forces that are interconnected and interdependent. They represent the duality of existence, like light and dark, or hot and cold.

Daoist philosophy influenced government by suggesting the best rulers are those who rule least and intervene minimally in the natural order.

Daoism encourages individuals to live in harmony with nature, embracing spontaneity and simplicity. It emphasizes living in the present moment and finding contentment within oneself.

In ancient China, the Zhou Dynasty believed that Heaven granted the king the right to rule, known as the Mandate of Heaven. This mandate was not given to the king by birth, but rather based on his virtue and ability to rule justly. If a king lost the trust of the people and ruled poorly, Heaven would withdraw its mandate and he would be overthrown.

The Warring States Period was a tumultuous time in Chinese history where various states battled for dominance, leading to chaos and instability. This period lasted for roughly 250 years (475-221 BC) and ended with the rise of the Qin Dynasty.

Confucius, also known as Kongfuzi, was a Chinese philosopher who lived during the Warring States Period. He was deeply concerned about the social and political turmoil of his time and felt that restoring order and harmony was crucial. His teachings focused on moral principles, ethical conduct, and social harmony.

The core of Confucianism is rooted in the idea of ren (仁), a multifaceted concept encompassing virtues like benevolence, kindness, humanity, and righteousness. It highlights the importance of individuals cultivating these virtues to create a harmonious society.

Confucius's motivation to promote peace stemmed from the widespread suffering and chaos caused by the Warring States Period. He observed the destruction and instability, witnessing firsthand the effects of conflict on people's lives. His desire for a more peaceful and harmonious society drove him to develop his philosophy.

A feudal system is characterized by a hierarchical social structure where power is distributed among different levels of society. At the top is the king, followed by lords who control their own territories and owe loyalty to the king. Peasants work the land for lords, who in turn provide protection and support. In this system, peasants have the least power.

Peasants, also known as serfs, were the most common social class in a feudal society. They worked the land for their lords, providing them with agricultural products in exchange for protection and the right to live on the land. They had limited power and were subject to the rules and regulations of their lords.

A philosophy that emphasizes strict laws and harsh punishments to maintain order and control.

The belief that human nature is inherently selfish and needs to be controlled by strict rules and punishments.

A Chinese dynasty that implemented Legalist principles, resulting in a period of strong centralized rule but also harsh punishments.

The founder of Legalism, known for his belief that strict laws and harsh punishments are necessary for social order.