Vocabulary for 3 Chinese Philosophies

Mandate of Heaven believed to grant to a ruler?

• The right to rule

• Immortality

• Wealth

• Military power

Answer explanation

The Mandate of Heaven is a Chinese philosophical concept that grants the right to rule to a leader, based on their ability to govern justly and effectively. Thus, the correct answer is 'The right to rule'.

What system of government was based on landowners and tenants?

• Feudalism

• Democracy

• Republic

• Bureaucracy

Answer explanation

Feudalism is a system of government where landowners (lords) grant land to tenants (vassals) in exchange for service and loyalty. This structure is characterized by the relationship between land and social hierarchy.

Which philosophy emphasized leading by example and respect for elders?

• Confucianism

• Legalism

• Daoism

• Buddhism

Answer explanation

Confucianism emphasizes leading by example and shows great respect for elders, promoting moral integrity and social harmony. This philosophy is centered around the importance of relationships and proper conduct in society.

According to Legalism, how should rulers maintain order?

• Strict laws and harsh punishments

• Leading by moral example

• Ruling as little as possible

• Giving land to all citizens

Answer explanation

According to Legalism, rulers should maintain order through strict laws and harsh punishments. This approach emphasizes control and discipline to deter wrongdoing, contrasting with moral leadership or minimal governance.

What is a civil servant?

• A government worker

• A military general

• A religious leader

• A landowner

Answer explanation

A civil servant is defined as a government worker who is employed in the public sector to provide services and implement policies. This distinguishes them from military generals, religious leaders, and landowners.

Who was the founder of Confucianism?

• Confucius

• Laozi

• Hanfeizi

• Qin Shihuangdi

Answer explanation

Confucianism was founded by Confucius, a Chinese philosopher who emphasized moral integrity, social relationships, and justice. The other options, such as Laozi and Hanfeizi, are associated with different philosophical traditions.

What did Daoists believe was the best way to rule?

• Rule as little as possible

• Establish a strict legal code

• Expand the empire

• Lead by personal virtue

Answer explanation

Daoists believed that the best way to rule was to "rule as little as possible," emphasizing minimal intervention and allowing people to live naturally. This approach contrasts with strict legal codes or expansionist policies.

What is a dynasty?

• A ruling family that holds power for generations

• A group of scholars

• A type of farming method

• A type of military strategy

Answer explanation

A dynasty is defined as a ruling family that maintains power over multiple generations, distinguishing it from other groups or concepts like scholars, farming methods, or military strategies.

What is a philosophy?

• A system of ideas about how to live and govern

• A type of government

• A religious belief

• A type of economy

Answer explanation

A philosophy is fundamentally a system of ideas that guides how individuals live and govern themselves, making the first answer choice the correct one. It encompasses beliefs and values rather than being limited to government, religion, or economy.

What does reverence mean?

• Deep respect

• Fear and obedience

• Strict punishment

• Total control

Answer explanation

Reverence means deep respect for someone or something. It conveys admiration and honor, distinguishing it from fear, obedience, punishment, or control, which do not capture the essence of respect.