1. Three Chinese Philosophies
Ancient China, Chapter 21 - Unit 4

2. Chapter 21 - Essential Question
How did Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism influence political rule in ancient China?
Chapter 21 - Essential Question

3. After the Shang Dynasty the Zhou dynasty lasted from 1045 - 256 B.C.E.
They were the longest lasting dynasty.
King Cheng

4. The Zhou (Joh) Empire

5. 21.1 Introduction
During the later years, different leaders fought for control and China wanted piece again.
There were 3 Different Answers:

6. The Kings 1st Adviser suggest:
Confucianism
Lead by Example

7. If you must rule, rule as little as possible.
The Kings 2nd Adviser suggest:
Daoism
If you must rule, rule as little as possible.

8. Set clear laws and harshly punish those who disobey them.
The Kings 3rd Adviser suggest:
Legalism
Set clear laws and harshly punish those who disobey them.

9. A Power of law believed to be granted by a god.
21.2: The Zhou Dynasty
Mandate of Heaven
A Power of law believed to be granted by a god.
Early Years
Later Years
After overthrowing the Shang Dynasty, They established their own rule. They claimed that they have been given the Mandate of Heaven.
(Feudalism) This means the King owned all land, that only loyals lived on, but they must fight for the king - pay in crops - & get protected.
700’s B.C.E. - Feudalism started to fall apart. The Lords became more powerful and grouped together and fought for power. This caused 250 years of disorder in China. (Warring states period)
This is why they looked for new ideas (philosophies).
This made the King the Son of Heaven

10. The Philosophers Confucius (Most Famous) Laozi (Low-Dzuh)
Hanfeizi (hahn-fay-dzoo)
5 Basic Relationships:
1. Ruler & Subject
2. Husband & Wife
3. Father & Son
4. Older & Younger Sibling
5. Friend & Friend
* Must set a good example.
A very powerful effect on Han Dynasty, later in history.
Yin Yang
Impossible to have good without bad. Influenced rulers to govern less harshly. Daoism had a BIG impact of Chinese thought & art.
Most people are naturally selfish. This idea had almost immediate influence on government.
People were forbidden to criticize government.
Confucianism
Daoism (Taoism)
Legalism

11. Confucianism Influence
Very practical effect on government for the Han Dynasty. Allowed Han leaders to hire civil servants based on their ability - NOT FAMILY or position on the social class pyramid.
They had to take exams that would likely be graded by the emperor.
Major Influence on: Chinese culture, Values like respect for elders, proper behavior, and love of studying.
Confucianism

12. Daoism Influence
Based on the ancient chinese idea of Dao (dow), or “the Way.” It taught: people gained happiness by living in harmony, or agreement.
Believed that people shouldn’t feel self- important or work to gain possessions or honors. Accept whatever comes.
This philosophy encouraged rulers to govern less harshly. But the most important influence was on Chinese thought, writing, and art.
Daoism (Taoism) developed into a popular religion.
Daoism (Taoism)

13. Legalism Influence
People will always go after what they want. They cannot be counted on to have a good influence.
Rulers can’t just set a good example, they need to make strict laws and enforce them.
Because rulers were always being overthrown Hanfeizi believed that “He who trusts other will be controlled by others.”
The Qin (chin) dynasty liked this idea to build a strong government after they took control of China.
Legalism

14. Chapter 21 Review
3 Chinese Philosophies

15. How did Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism influence political rule in ancient China?
ANSWER: