17 Questions
According to Zhou theory of politics, heavenly powers granted the right to govern the 'mandate of heaven' to:
An especially deserving individual known as the 'son of heaven'
What was the duty of the ruler according to Zhou theory of politics?
Governing conscientiously, observing high standards of honor and justice
What would happen if a ruler failed in his duties according to Zhou theory?
Chaos and suffering would afflict his realm
How did the heavenly powers signal their disapproval of a ruler's actions in Zhou theory?
Withdrawing the mandate to rule
What role did the ruler play in the cosmic balance according to Zhou theory?
He served as a link between heaven and earth
What type of individuals might have become slaves in ancient China?
Prisoners-of-war
How did some slave owners in ancient China maintain control over their captives?
Using physical abuse and starvation
What was a potential outcome for children born to enslaved parents in ancient China?
Becoming property of the slave owners
In what ways did skilled artisans under slavery in ancient China have a chance to gain freedom?
By serving their masters faithfully for years
How did Chinese lawmakers attempt to regulate slavery during certain periods of history?
By establishing laws to govern the institution
What differentiated the prevalence of slavery in ancient China from societies like Rome?
The less widespread nature of slavery in China
What was one primary role of slaves in Chinese society, as mentioned in the text?
Performing menial tasks like farming and construction work
How did slavery impact social mobility in ancient China?
It enhanced social mobility by allowing free citizens to pursue higher-skilled jobs.
What was one argument against the benefits of slavery mentioned in the text?
Slavery perpetuated cycles of poverty.
In what way did a well-regulated system of servitude act as a safety net in ancient China?
By providing support for those who were economically disadvantaged
What did critics argue about the negative aspects of slavery's economic impact?
It hindered economic advancement for disadvantaged populations.
How does understanding historical slavery in ancient China provide valuable lessons, according to the text?
It sheds light on both the dark past and lessons for the present.
Explore the principles behind the Zhou dynasty's justification for the deposition of the Shang and their concept of the 'mandate of heaven'. Understand how these ideas influenced Chinese political thinking over the centuries.
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