Legalism vs. Confucianism Flashcards
Describe legalism, what are the main ideas?
- Legalists cared nothing about the place human nature and believed the best way to further the state was by dividing people into cultivation and military service.
- They implemented laws that would punish those who did not benefit the needs of the state.
How does legalism differ from Confucianism and vice versa?
Legalism discourages learning, social development and the well-being of the people.
Confucianism focuses on the way people treat each other and how to build a strong community.
Describe the main ideas of Confucianism
Humans are naturally good, leader is educated and wise and sets a good example for the people.
Five Relationships: Ruler to subject, husband to wife, father to son, friend to friend, older brother to younger brother. This shows male dominated relationships - Patriarchy.
Filial Piety: Reverence for one’s family and ancestors
Why did the Han come to use Confucianism as the basis for their civil service exam?
Confucius believed leaders should be kind, have a sense of humanity, respectful, diligent.
Han began to recognize Confucian ideals and education along with Legalist principles.
Why may have the Spring and Autumn and Warring States period created so many unique philosophies in China?
The chaos in the late centuries of the Zhou dynasty in the Period of the Warring States (403 - 221) was very chaotic. This chaos forced thoughtful people to reflect on society and the roles of people in a society. Some tried to create principles to help save the community.
What are the Five Vermin?
The five groups of people looked down upon during Legalist rule because their jobs did not involve dedication and had high pay compared to honorable jobs such as farmers and soldiers. The ruler sought to wipe out the vermin or face collapse of the civilization.
The groups were; scholars, speechmakers, swordsmen, merchants, artisans
What are The Two Handles?
The Two Handles are the ways that a ruler controls his ministers.
- Punishment - to inflict mutilation and death
- Favor - to bestow honor and reward
What was Han Fei’s rationale for punishment?
Everything that is said will be done, must be done. Even if a good thing were to happen without being sad before, the minister would face punishment.
