Exam 3: China in Antiquity

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The Han rulers combined Confucianism with Legalism by adopting Confucian principles of moral and ethical behavior while also implementing Legalist policies of strict laws and harsh punishments to maintain control. They promoted Confucian education and the civil service exam system to select officials based on merit and virtue, while also using Legalist methods to centralize power and maintain social order.

In many ways, the Han rulers were successful in combining these two philosophies. They were able to establish a stable and prosperous empire that lasted for over 400 years, and their policies helped to create a strong and effective government. The emphasis on Confucian values of benevolence and righteousness helped to create a sense of moral duty among officials, while the Legalist emphasis on strict laws and punishments helped to maintain social order and prevent rebellion.

However, there were also challenges and limitations to this combination. The harsh Legalist policies led to widespread corruption and abuse of power, and the Confucian emphasis on hierarchy and tradition sometimes stifled innovation and progress. Additionally, the tension between these two philosophies created conflicts within the government and society.

Overall, while the Han rulers were largely successful in combining Confucianism with Legalism, there were also drawbacks and limitations to their approach.

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In Chinese philosophy, the term "action" is associated with Confucianism and the term "inaction" with Daoism because of the fundamental differences in their beliefs and principles.

Confucianism emphasizes the importance of social harmony, ethical behavior, and the fulfillment of one's duties and responsibilities within society. Confucius believed that individuals should actively engage in the world and strive to improve themselves and their communities through virtuous actions. Therefore, the concept of "action" is central to Confucian thought, as it reflects the proactive and conscientious approach to life advocated by Confucian teachings.

On the other hand, Daoism, founded by Laozi, promotes the idea of living in harmony with the natural order and embracing the concept of "wu wei," which can be translated as "inaction" or "non-action." Daoists believe that excessive striving and interference with the natural flow of life can lead to disharmony and imbalance. Instead, they advocate for a more passive and spontaneous way of being, allowing events to unfold naturally and effortlessly. This concept of "inaction" does not imply laziness or apathy, but rather a state of being in which one is attuned to the rhythms of the universe and acts in accordance with them.

Therefore, the association of "action" with Confucianism and "inaction" with Daoism reflects the contrasting approaches to life and the world advocated by these two philosophical traditions. Confucianism emphasizes the active engagement and moral cultivation of individuals within society, while Daoism promotes a more passive and harmonious way of being in tune with the natural order.