WORLD RELIGIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -How did following the ideas of Legalism contribute to the downfall of the Qin dynasty during the reign of Emperor Shi Huangdi? The emperor wasted resources on building a large army. The emperor was weakened because he supported fair treatment for all. The emperor focused on cruel punishments to enforce strict laws.

Detailed explanation-2: -Shi Huangdi turned away from these teachings He took up another school of thought, called Legalism. Legalists believed that people were driven by self-interest. They believed that to be good members of society, people had to be controlled by a strong ruler, strict laws, and harsh punishments.

Detailed explanation-3: -End of the Qin Dynasty In two years time, most of the empire had revolted against the new emperor, creating a constant atmosphere of rebellion and retaliation. Warlord Xiang Yu in quick succession defeated the Qin army in battle, executed the emperor, destroyed the capital and split up the empire into 18 states.

Detailed explanation-4: -By making Legalism the official state philosophy, and banning all others, Qin Shi Huangdi consolidated authority under his absolute right to rule and justified his practice of abolishing the philosophies, traditions, and even writing systems of the different cities under his rule.