Early Chinese Civilization and Philosophies

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the early civilization of China and its philosophical developments.

Xia Dynasty

Considered the first dynasty of China, though little evidence exists for it.

Shang Dynasty

The first historically evidenced dynasty in China, known for the emergence of features that influenced Chinese civilization.

Mandate of Heaven

The concept that heaven grants authority to a ruler, which can be lost if they rule unjustly.

Legalism

A Chinese philosophy that emphasizes strict adherence to law and the power of the state over individual well-being.

Daoism

A nature-oriented philosophy prioritizing harmony with nature and advocating for minimal government intervention.

Confucianism

A philosophy focusing on ethics, education, and the importance of family and respect for authority.

Ideograph

A character or symbol representing an idea or concept in the Chinese writing system.

The Era of the Warlords

The final 200 years of the Zhou Dynasty characterized by political fragmentation and conflict among provinces.

Agricultural innovations

Introduction of iron plows and large-scale irrigation that increased food production in ancient China.

Cultural unity

The continuity of a shared culture, especially through the uniformity of the Mandarin Chinese language.