WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Legalism in ancient China was a philosophical belief that human beings are more inclined to do wrong than right because they are motivated entirely by self-interest and require strict laws to control their impulses. It was developed by the philosopher Han Feizi (l. c. 280-233 BCE) of the state of Qin.

Detailed explanation-2: -Legalism is based on the viewpoint that in order for a ruler to maintain order in society, people must obey a set of strict laws and those in authority (the rulers and government officials). Legalist philosophers thus created a system of punishment and reward for certain behaviors.

Detailed explanation-3: -Confucianism remains one of the most influential philosophies in China. During the Han Dynasty, emperor Wu Di (reigned 141–87 B.C.E.) made Confucianism the official state ideology.

Detailed explanation-4: -Confucianism and Legalism both required strict adherence to principles, whether they were enforcement-based Legalist ones or shame-based Confucian ones.

Detailed explanation-5: -As a student, Mao Zedong championed Shang Yang, and towards the end of his life hailed the anti-Confucian legalist policies of the Qin dynasty.

Detailed explanation-6: -Confucianism is one of the most influential religious philosophies in the history of China, and it has existed for over 2, 500 years. It is concerned with inner virtue, morality, and respect for the community and its values.