The Zhou Dynasty and the Three Philosophies

Three Chinese Philosophies

How did Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism influence political rule in ancient China?

Zhou Dynasty

• After defeating Shang Dynasty they created their own dynasty.

• Claimed they had been given the Mandate of Heaven.

• Increase government stability with feudalism. With this, the king owned all the land, which the rich received much of. This was in exchange for soldiers.

Multiple Choice

The Zhou Dynasty established this idea of a "Mandate of Heaven." This idea meant all except...

• Divine right to rule China.

• Heaven was a power that controlled human destiny.

• The king was the son of Heaven.

• Man could vote to over power the mandate of heaven.

Later Years of Zhou

• Feudalism began to breakdown. The lords of individual states wanted more power.

• A number of small states combined created 6 or 7 larger states and began the Warring States period (250 years of disorder in China).

• Leaders looked for ways to bring back peace.

Multiple Choice

Why did leaders of China seek out the three major schools of thought, Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism?

• People no longer wanted to believe in the Mandate of Heaven.

• Conflict rose with the Warring States period.

• The King was no longer looked at as a god, and wanted to regain his superior power.

Confucianism

• Found by Kongfuzi.

• Goal was to teach people to all follow good behavior and maintain relationships.

• Had a major influence on Chinese culture, especially with the Han dynasty.

• Values respect for elders, proper behavior, love of studying.

Multiple Choice

Which of these is NOT something that aligns with Confucianism?

• decreased the importance of elder status.

• placed and importance on healthy relationship with friends & family.

• More importance on what someone can do and not just on the family they were born in.

Daoism

• Fonded by Laozi. Believed in "Dao", which means "The Way"

• Believed true harmony comes from balance. (Yin & Yang)

• Everyone must discover the Dao for themselves. Too many laws and rules cause conflict.

• The best ruler was the one who ruled the least.

Multiple Choice

Which statement best matches the belief of Daoism?

• Hard work will lead to a life of happiness.

• A strong government forces people to be the best citizens possible.

• A life of scholarship & knowledge is a life well-spent.

• People cannon experience pleasure without pain.

Leagalism

• Founded by Hanfeizi

• Wanted to create peace & order.

• Believed people were naturally selfish.

• To bring order strict laws and harsh punishments were needed. Rulers should trust no one, not even their own family.

• This had an immediate influence on government.

Poll

If you were to live in Ancient China, which philosophy would you like to live under?

• Confucianism

• Daoism

• Legalism

Open Ended

How did Confucianism, Daoism, & Legalism influence political rule in ancient China?