Similarities Between Han China And Confucianism

Confucian beliefs within the Han dynasty shaped a government of benevolence that believed social relations and education were necessary for function, while Legalist principles of the Qin dynasty influenced governmental hierarchy and the discouragement of education. In the Han dynasty, Confucianism stressed the idea of Filial Piety which was the recognition of reverence for the source of life. Filial Piety was put in place to enable both parent and child to flourish through their cooperation of one another. Confucians were fond of applying the family metaphor to the community so when families were thriving, communities were considered thriving as well. Politics within the Han dynasty adopted this technique and soon believed that rulers should set example through moral leadership and exemplary teaching based on the way families operated. The higher goal of social harmony was

However, life for those living in the Qin dynasty was very different. The Qin dynasty was notorious for their astonishing punishments, one of which was when the criminal had their arms tied around a pole whilst they were beaten continuously. Such extreme measures were taken by the government in order to scare others from committing the same crime. Harsh punishments such as “beating” and strict laws were intended to exhibit the immense power of the government, keeping the people from doing any wrong and preventing social disorder. Elements that were prohibited from their society included education and ethical concepts because they were thought to provoke rebellions and were strongly discouraged across the dynasty to ensure society’s upkeep. Looking at these qualities of each dynasty, the Legalist and Confucian philosophies generated contrasting roles of the government, one of which brought education and social mobility, and the other brought the prohibition of education and strict