Unit 1: Developments in Song China

Confucianism

A philosophy that taught human society is hierarchical by nature, composed of unequal relationships.

Filial piety

The practice of honoring one’s ancestors and parents.

Neo-Confucianism

A revival of Confucian thought influenced by Buddhist and Daoist philosophical ideas.

Imperial bureaucracy

A large bureaucracy in the Song Dynasty that ensured obedience to the emperor, with positions awarded based on merit through civil service exams.

Foot binding

A practice that restricted women's mobility by making the feet smaller, particularly common among elite women.

Tributary relationship

A political relationship in which one state maintains a subordinate alliance to another, often adopting cultural traits.

Mahayana Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism that emphasizes compassion and teaches that Buddha's teachings are available to all.

Theravada Buddhism

The original form of Buddhism, often restricted to monks and a select few practitioners.

Four Noble Truths

The core principles of Buddhism that outline the nature of suffering and the path to cessation of suffering.

Eightfold path

A set of principles and practices in Buddhism that guide ethical and mindful living.

Champa rice

A drought-resistant and high-yield crop introduced during the Song Dynasty, leading to a population boom.

Grand Canal

A major transportation infrastructure that expanded during the Song Dynasty to lower travel costs and improve trade.