Question: What were some of the main ideas, beliefs and changes that helped to shape the society of Traditional China?.
From around 2000 BC, Chinese civilisation was led by a progression of dynasties until the collapse of the very last Manchu (Qing) Dynasty in 1912. Up until this period, the social development of Traditional China was perhaps influenced by a number of significant ideas and beliefs. Contributors include the ideology of Confucius, a wise Chinese philosopher; the alleged principles behind the status of women in Chinese society; the first emperor to govern a united China, Shi Huangdi; and the numerous religious beliefs, which the people adopted during the era of Traditional China.
The ideas and teachings of the most respected philosopher in Chinese history, Confucius, have had a major impact on the beliefs, customs and culture in Traditional China. Although the "Great Master Kong" was not recognised vastly during his life, it was his followers who publicised his teachings through a book known as The Analects.
Living in the late period of the Zhou Dynasty during chaos and internal hostilities led Confucius to try to benefit the world by creating and spreading his beliefs of integrity and morality. The ideology of Confucius greatly affected Chinese society through education, government, personal behaviour, and a person's duty to society. .
Confucius believed that in order for a society to progress peacefully, people had to be educated about good moral standards, which created an orderly population. Confucius suggested that if a ruler displayed qualities of honesty, loyalty, love and good manners, his followers would be eager to abide by these characteristics. He also criticised that government officials should be carefully considered by the attributes of their character and their virtue, and not for their wealth. This idea then implemented a system in government where government candidates would have to be examined on the teachings of Confucius in order to become an official.
