History Alive

Chapter 21

Three Chinese Philosophies

Key Terms

Mandate of Heaven

A power or law believed to be granted by a god

Feudalism

A system of government based on landowners and tenants

Zhou dynasty

Lasted from 1045 to 256 B.C.E. In later years different leaders fought for control of China. The country was thrown into disorder. Three philosophies emerged about the best way t have peace and order in society.

Yin and yang

Opposite forced in nature such as life and death. True harmony came from balancing these forces.

The Chinese Feudal System

King

Peasants

Lords

What group belongs in the box at the bottom of this diagram?

The Zhou dynasty came after the

The Zhou dynasty kept order in China far several hundred years because it

As the Zhou dynasty broke down several small states gained power in what was called

The Warring States Period

All this disorder lead to the development of

Three school of thought: Daoism, Confucianism, Legalism

Shang Dynasty.

claimed to have a mandate from heaven.

Daoism’s book, Dao De Jing, was supposedly written by Lao Tzi but scholars think

In Confucianism people must obey those above them and in return they

What are basic facts on legalism?

Was likely written over time by many writers (p. 210)

Must treat those below well and set a good example

People are naturally selfish.

Because of this strict laws are needed and punishments for breaking laws must be harsh.

Civil servants should be monitored closely and punished if they do a bad job.

Philosophy Goal How Achieved

Influence

Confucianism

Founder:

Confucius

Confucianism

A just and peaceful society

All people must respect and obey those above them. Those with authority should set a good example.

Civil servants were hired on the bases of ability and had to pass tests.Values such as respect for elders, proper behavior and love of scholarship became part of Chinese culture.

Philosophy Goal How Achieved

Influence

Daoism

Founder:

Laozi

Daoism

Simple and natural living.

Happiness and peace were gained by living in harmony with nature.

Rulers were encouraged to rule less harshly. Influenced Chinese thought, writing and art. Daoism developed into a popular religion.

Philosophy Goal How Achieved

Influence

Legalism

Founder:

Hanfeizi

Legalism

Peace and order in society

Rulers should establish strict laws with rewards for good behavior and harsh punishment for bad behavior.

The Qin dynasty used legalist ideas to build a strong central government and well-organized society.