The Impact of Legalism in Qin China
What effect did Legalism have in Qin China?
Which of the following was an effect of the Legalist influence in Qin China?
- the passage of strict laws with harsh punishments
- an emphasis on the importance of the family and respect for elders
- the strengthening of the traditional caste system
- the implementation of the civil service exam
Answer
The main effect of Legalism in Qin China, 221 - 206 BCE, was to create strict rules and harsh punishments for those who disobeyed the rules, as well as rewards for those who carefully observed the law. This is because after the Warring States period, Qin rulers admired the philosophy of legalism, which aimed for strict obedience to the law.
Legalism had a significant impact on the Qin dynasty in ancient China. The passage of strict laws with harsh punishments was one of the key effects of Legalist influence in the region. The Legalists advocated for government by a system of laws that rigidly prescribed punishments and rewards for specific behaviors.
The goal of Legalism was to increase the power of the state and the ruler through absolute obedience to authority. However, the implementation of such strict laws ultimately led to the downfall of the Qin dynasty. This was due to the people's discontent with the excessive harshness of the legal system.
Chinese society believed that too much strictness and severity in the legal system had negative effects and was not the right way to maintain discipline. As a result, the Qin dynasty was eventually overthrown from power, highlighting the drawbacks of extreme Legalist influence.