Civil servants were hired on the bases of ability and had t

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History Alive

• Chapter 21
• Three Chinese Philosophies

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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.
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• The Chinese Feudal System

King
Lords
Peasants
What group belongs in the box at the bottom of
this diagram?
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Shang Dynasty.
claimed to have a mandate from heaven.
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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.
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Confucianism
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.
All people must respect and obey those above
them. Those with authority should set a good
example.
A just and peaceful society
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Daoism
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.
Simple and natural living.
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Legalism
The Qin dynasty used legalist ideas to build a
strong central government and well-organized
society.
Rulers should establish strict laws with rewards
for good behavior and harsh punishment for bad
behavior.
Peace and order in society