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Legalism in Ancient China

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Questions and Answers

Which of these philosophers is NOT associated with Legalism?

Li Si

Shang Yang

Confucius (correct)

Hanfeizi

What was a key belief of Legalism regarding human nature?

Humans are neutral and their nature is shaped by their environment.

Humans are naturally cooperative and seek harmony.

Humans are inherently selfish and require strict control. (correct)

Humans are inherently virtuous and capable of self-governance.

What management technique did Legalism emphasize?

Fostering individual creativity and innovation.

Utilizing rewards and punishments to motivate behavior. (correct)

Promoting harmony through shared values and beliefs.

Empowering individuals through democratic processes.

What was the primary goal of Legalist policies?

Enhancing the power of the ruler and the state. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What did Legalists believe was the primary means of achieving social harmony?

A strong system of laws and punishments. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these phrases is NOT a core principle of Legalism?

"ren" (benevolence) (C) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Qin dynasty's implementation of Legalist principles contribute to its downfall?

It created resentment and unrest among the population, leading to rebellion and overthrow. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant consequence of the Qin dynasty's downfall?

The rise of the Han dynasty and the establishment of a more humane and tolerant system. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Legalism in Ancient China

Legalism was a prominent school of Chinese philosophy during the Warring States era (475–221 BCE).
It formed the ideological basis for the Qin dynasty (221–207 BCE).
Influential Legalist philosophers include Shang Yang, Li Si, and Hanfeizi.
Three main precepts of Legalism:
- Strict application of publicized laws (fa).
- Application of management techniques (shu), including accountability (xingming) and "showing nothing" (wuxian).
- Manipulation of political influence (shi).
Legalists believe self-interest leads to personal gain, causing conflict. Thus, a strong centralized authority is needed for order and harmony.Social harmony is achieved through strong state control, not virtue of the ruler.
Legalists advocated for a system of laws with strict punishments and rewards, directing all activity towards increasing ruler and state power.
The Qin dynasty's brutal implementation led to its downfall and discrediting Legalist thought in China.

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Description

Explore the foundational principles and influential philosophers of Legalism during the Warring States era. This quiz covers the key tenets of Legalism, its application in governance during the Qin dynasty, and the philosophical implications regarding human nature and state power.