Zhou Dynasty: Mandate of Heaven and Political Legitimacy

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According to Zhou theory of politics, heavenly powers granted the right to govern the 'mandate of heaven' to:

The military general with the most victories

Any member of the ruling dynasty

The eldest son of the ruler

An especially deserving individual known as the 'son of heaven' (correct)

What was the duty of the ruler according to Zhou theory of politics?

Governing conscientiously, observing high standards of honor and justice (correct)

Expanding the empire through conquest

Hoarding wealth for personal gain

Suppressing any form of opposition ruthlessly

What would happen if a ruler failed in his duties according to Zhou theory?

The ruler would be celebrated as a hero

The heavenly powers would reward him with more power

He would be automatically granted an extension of his mandate

Chaos and suffering would afflict his realm (correct)

How did the heavenly powers signal their disapproval of a ruler's actions in Zhou theory?

Withdrawing the mandate to rule Signup and view all the answers

What role did the ruler play in the cosmic balance according to Zhou theory?

He served as a link between heaven and earth Signup and view all the answers

What type of individuals might have become slaves in ancient China?

Prisoners-of-war Signup and view all the answers

How did some slave owners in ancient China maintain control over their captives?

Using physical abuse and starvation Signup and view all the answers

What was a potential outcome for children born to enslaved parents in ancient China?

Becoming property of the slave owners Signup and view all the answers

In what ways did skilled artisans under slavery in ancient China have a chance to gain freedom?

By serving their masters faithfully for years Signup and view all the answers

How did Chinese lawmakers attempt to regulate slavery during certain periods of history?

By establishing laws to govern the institution Signup and view all the answers

What differentiated the prevalence of slavery in ancient China from societies like Rome?

The less widespread nature of slavery in China Signup and view all the answers

What was one primary role of slaves in Chinese society, as mentioned in the text?

Performing menial tasks like farming and construction work Signup and view all the answers

How did slavery impact social mobility in ancient China?

It enhanced social mobility by allowing free citizens to pursue higher-skilled jobs. Signup and view all the answers

What was one argument against the benefits of slavery mentioned in the text?

Slavery perpetuated cycles of poverty. Signup and view all the answers

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 Signup and view all the answers

What did critics argue about the negative aspects of slavery's economic impact?

It hindered economic advancement for disadvantaged populations. Signup and view all the answers

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. Signup and view all the answers

Zhou Dynasty: Mandate of Heaven and Political Legitimacy

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