Questions and Answers
Who is the founder of Legalism?
Hanfeizi
What year was Legalism founded?
200s B.C.
What is the central idea of Legalism?
Society needs a system of harsh laws and punishments to force people to do their duty.
How do Legalists view people?
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What do Legalists believe is the role of an individual in society?
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How did the Legalists keep the people ignorant?
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What is their goal in life?
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Legalism is still practiced in some countries.
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Study Notes
Legalism in China
- Hanfeizi is recognized as the founder of Legalism, a philosophy developed in ancient China.
- Legalism emerged in the 200s B.C., during a period of significant political turmoil.
- Central to Legalist thought is the belief that society requires strict laws and harsh punishments to ensure individuals fulfill their obligations.
- Legalists view human nature as inherently evil, necessitating rigorous legal frameworks to compel obedience to societal norms.
- Individual roles in society are defined by strict adherence to laws, with an emphasis on compliance over personal freedoms.
- Legalists aimed to maintain ignorance among the populace by burning historical texts and literature, thereby controlling knowledge and information.
- The ultimate goal of Legalism is to achieve an orderly and stable society through absolute governance and regulation.
- Elements of Legalism continue to influence governance in some modern countries, reflecting its enduring legacy.
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Description
This quiz focuses on the philosophy of Legalism in ancient China, highlighting its founder Hanfeizi, its origins in the 200s B.C., and its central principles. Test your knowledge on the key concepts and views of Legalism and how it shaped governance in Chinese history.
