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The Zhou dynasty lasted from about 1045 to 256 B.C.E. During its later years, different leaders fought for control in China. The country was thrown into disorder. These troubles led Chinese thinkers to ask serious questions about the best way to have peace and order in society. Three very different answers emerged and became the philosophies of Confucianism (kuhn-FYOO-shuh-niz-uhm), Daoism (DOW-iz-um), and Legalism.
Three Chinese Philosophies FOR WEBSITE.pdfThe following scene illustrates the differences between these schools of thought. Imagine that it is 250 B.C.E. The ruler of a small kingdom has sent three advisers to learn about the three philosophies. Upon their return, he asks them, “What should I do to rule well?”
The first adviser has learned about Confucianism. He tells the king, “Lead by example.” The second adviser has studied Daoism. He says, “If you must rule, rule as little as possible.” The third adviser has learned about Legalism. He says, “Set clear laws and harshly punish those who disobey them.”
Summary:
The Zhou Dynasty All three schools of thought developed in the later years of the Zhou dynasty. Zhou rulers believed they had the Mandate of Heaven, a divine right to rule China. For a time, the Zhou's practice of feudalism helped stabilize China. But during the dynasty's later years, China collapsed into disorder. Political unrest led many scholars to debate the proper way to rule.
Confucianism Confucius taught his followers that peace and order depended upon proper behavior. Those in authority must lead by example. Those lower in status must obey. Confucianism led Han leaders to hire civil servants based on ability and tested knowledge rather than on family relationships.
Daoism Daoists believed that people should live simply and in harmony with the ways of nature. Harmony could be reached by balancing yin and yang, the opposite forces of nature. Daoists said that the best rulers were those who ruled the least.
Legalism Legalists believed that people were driven by their own self-interest. Legalism taught that rulers could create order in society only through strict laws and harsh punishments.
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