Ch. 8 Testenhance Your Knowledge On Bentley With This Quiz!
- 1.
Confucius left an enduring mark on Chinese society as
- A.
An educator and political advisor
- B.
A man involved in the practice of statecraft as an ambitious official
- C.
A great traveler and writer of deep philosophical treatises
- D.
A powerful and corrupt emperor
Correct Answer
A. An educator and political advisorExplanation
Confucius is known for his significant contributions as an educator and political advisor in Chinese society. He played a crucial role in shaping the education system and emphasizing the importance of moral values and ethics. As a political advisor, Confucius provided guidance to rulers on governance, emphasizing the need for virtuous leadership and the well-being of the people. His teachings and ideas continue to influence Chinese society and have had a lasting impact on education, politics, and moral values.Rate this question:
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- 2.
By JUNZI, or "superior individuals," Confucius meant
- A.
Specially-chosen, highly skilled warriors
- B.
Individuals who withdraw from society and live in harmony with nature
- C.
Well-educated and conscientious individuals to fill state offices
- D.
Graduates of Confucius' own school of philosophy
Correct Answer
C. Well-educated and conscientious individuals to fill state officesExplanation
Confucius believed that "superior individuals" or JUNZI were well-educated and conscientious individuals who were capable of filling important positions in the government. These individuals were expected to possess moral integrity, wisdom, and a deep understanding of Confucian teachings. They were considered to be the ideal leaders who would govern with virtue and bring harmony to society. Confucius emphasized the importance of education and self-cultivation in order to become a JUNZI and contribute to the well-being of the state.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Mencius, the principal spokesman for the Confucian school, advocated that
- A.
The evil nature of human beings could be improved by moral education
- B.
Government should be organized through benevolence and humane action
- C.
Government should be based on moral principal and codified law
- D.
People should live by Daoist principles and behave by Confucian values
Correct Answer
B. Government should be organized through benevolence and humane actionExplanation
Mencius, the principal spokesman for the Confucian school, believed that the evil nature of human beings could be improved through moral education. He also advocated that government should be organized through benevolence and humane action. This means that a good government should prioritize the well-being of its people and act with kindness and compassion. Mencius believed that a government based on these principles would create a harmonious society and bring out the best in its citizens.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The concept DAO means
- A.
Natural laws such as those defined by modern physics
- B.
The original force of the cosmos, an eternal and unchanging principle that governs all the workings of the world
- C.
Passive and yielding foces that exist only in water and empty spaces
- D.
Living according to REN, LI, and XIAO
Correct Answer
B. The original force of the cosmos, an eternal and unchanging principle that governs all the workings of the worldExplanation
The concept of DAO refers to the original force of the cosmos, an eternal and unchanging principle that governs all the workings of the world. This means that DAO represents a fundamental and universal power that influences and guides everything in existence. It implies that there is an underlying order and harmony in the universe, and that all natural laws and phenomena are ultimately governed by this cosmic force. DAO is seen as a timeless and unchanging principle that underlies the ever-changing world we live in.Rate this question:
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- 5.
An individual who practiced the Daoist virtue of WUWEI would
- A.
Motivate him/herself to change the world
- B.
Follow high ethical standards and strie for success
- C.
Try to govern the state according to benevolent paternalism
- D.
Go with the flow of the cosmos and live in harmony with nature
- E.
All of these choices are correct
Correct Answer
D. Go with the flow of the cosmos and live in harmony with natureExplanation
An individual who practiced the Daoist virtue of WUWEI would go with the flow of the cosmos and live in harmony with nature. This concept emphasizes the idea of non-action and non-interference, allowing things to unfold naturally without forcing or resisting them. By embracing the natural order of the universe and aligning oneself with the rhythms of nature, one can find inner peace and live in harmony with their surroundings. This approach is based on the belief that trying to control or change the world goes against the natural flow of things and can lead to disharmony and suffering.Rate this question:
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- 6.
To make a strong and powerful state, Legalist ministers
- A.
Encouraged commerce, entrepreneurial activity, and education
- B.
Won the people's support by providing them with legal rights
- C.
Sought to rule according to principles of benevolence
- D.
Encouraged agricultural cultivation and military service
Correct Answer
D. Encouraged agricultural cultivation and military serviceExplanation
The Legalist ministers believed that a strong and powerful state could be achieved by encouraging agricultural cultivation and military service. They understood that a well-fed and disciplined army was crucial for maintaining control and defending the state against external threats. Additionally, they recognized that a strong agricultural sector was essential for providing food and resources to support the state and its people. By prioritizing these two aspects, the Legalist ministers aimed to create a stable and prosperous state.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The First Emperor Qin Shihuangdi
- A.
Ordered the burning of most books
- B.
Ordered workers to link defensive walls into one barrier
- C.
Sentenced scholars to be buried alive
- D.
Standardized the written script
- E.
All of these choices are correct
Correct Answer
E. All of these choices are correctExplanation
The First Emperor Qin Shihuangdi is known for his extreme measures to consolidate power and control in ancient China. He ordered the burning of most books to eliminate opposition and ensure a unified ideology. He also ordered workers to link defensive walls into one barrier, which eventually became the Great Wall of China. Additionally, he sentenced scholars to be buried alive to suppress intellectual dissent. Lastly, he standardized the written script to promote communication and administrative efficiency. All of these choices are correct as they highlight the significant actions taken by Qin Shihuangdi during his reign.Rate this question:
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- 8.
In preparing governmental officials, the imperial university of the Later Han enrolled more than three thousand students, with its curriculum primarily based on
- A.
The statecraft policies of Legalism
- B.
Political science and the study of law
- C.
Daoism
- D.
Confucianism
- E.
All of these choices are correct
Correct Answer
D. ConfucianismExplanation
The imperial university of the Later Han enrolled over three thousand students and its curriculum was primarily based on Confucianism. This suggests that the university placed a strong emphasis on the teachings of Confucius and the values associated with Confucianism. This aligns with the historical significance of Confucianism in Chinese governance and the influence it had on shaping the statecraft policies of the Han dynasty.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Han Wudi decided to go on the offensive against the Xiongnu primarily because
- A.
He intended to invade the Persian empire from Central Asia
- B.
Other methods were not effective to pacify the Xiongnu and stop their raids
- C.
The economy was stagnant and the buildup to war provided jobs
- D.
He wanted to capture the wealthy Xiongnu cities
Correct Answer
B. Other methods were not effective to pacify the Xiongnu and stop their raidsExplanation
Han Wudi decided to go on the offensive against the Xiongnu primarily because other methods were not effective to pacify the Xiongnu and stop their raids. This suggests that Han Wudi had attempted alternative approaches to deal with the Xiongnu threat but found them to be unsuccessful. Therefore, he made the decision to take a more aggressive stance in order to effectively address the problem and put an end to the Xiongnu raids.Rate this question:
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- 10.
After 100 C.E. most Chinese writing was on
- A.
Bamboo, pounded thin to make sheets
- B.
Silk fabric
- C.
Paper
- D.
Parchment from animal skins
- E.
None of the choices are correct
Correct Answer
C. PaperExplanation
After 100 C.E., the most common material used for writing in China was paper. This was made by pounding bamboo into thin sheets, creating a durable and versatile writing surface. Silk fabric and parchment from animal skins were not commonly used for writing in China during this time period. Therefore, the correct answer is paper.Rate this question:
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- 11.
After Wang Mang usurped the throne of the Han, he attempted
- A.
Restore land that had been taken from the royal family
- B.
To solve the problem of court factions
- C.
To redistribute land more equitably
- D.
To conquer the Xiongnu
- E.
All of the choices are correct
Correct Answer
C. To redistribute land more equitablyExplanation
After Wang Mang took over the Han throne, he aimed to redistribute land more equitably. This means that he wanted to ensure a fair and balanced distribution of land among the people. This was likely done to address the issue of wealth inequality and to promote social stability within the kingdom. By redistributing land, Wang Mang hoped to create a more equal society and gain the support of the common people.Rate this question:
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- 12.
An event leading to the collapse of the Han dynasty was
- A.
The Yellow Turban Uprising
- B.
The invasion of the Xiongnu
- C.
The rise of the "socialist emperor"
- D.
Moving the capital ot Luoyang
- E.
All of these choices are correct
Correct Answer
A. The Yellow Turban UprisingExplanation
The Yellow Turban Uprising was an event that contributed to the collapse of the Han dynasty. This rebellion, led by a group of peasants known as the Yellow Turbans, was a response to social and economic unrest during the late Eastern Han period. The uprising weakened the central government's control and led to widespread chaos and instability. The Han dynasty was already facing other challenges, such as the invasion of the Xiongnu and internal power struggles, but the Yellow Turban Uprising further exacerbated these issues and ultimately played a significant role in the downfall of the dynasty.Rate this question:
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- 13.
What did Xunzi believe about human nature?
- A.
Moral education was needed
- B.
Good public behavior was to be valued
- C.
Humans selfishly pursue their own interests
- D.
Harsh social discipline is needed to bring order to society
- E.
All of the choices are correct
Correct Answer
E. All of the choices are correctExplanation
Xunzi believed that all of the choices are correct regarding human nature. He believed that moral education was needed to shape human behavior, that good public behavior should be valued, that humans selfishly pursue their own interests, and that harsh social discipline is necessary to bring order to society.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which doctrine called for harsh penalties even for minor infractions?
- A.
Legalism
- B.
Confucianism
- C.
Daoism
- D.
Buddhism
Correct Answer
A. LegalismExplanation
Legalism is the correct answer because it is a doctrine that emphasizes strict adherence to laws and regulations. It promotes the idea that individuals should be punished severely for even minor infractions in order to maintain social order and stability. This belief system was prevalent in ancient China and was favored by rulers who sought to consolidate their power and control over the population. Legalism's focus on punishment and harsh penalties distinguishes it from other doctrines such as Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, which generally advocate for more leniency and forgiveness.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What caused the collapse of the Qin dynasty?
- A.
Massive public works generated ill will among the people
- B.
Waves of rebels overwhelmed the Qin court
- C.
Disease devasted the population
- D.
Frustration with public works projects and rebel invasions
Correct Answer
D. Frustration with public works projects and rebel invasionsExplanation
The collapse of the Qin dynasty was caused by a combination of frustration with public works projects and rebel invasions. The massive public works undertaken by the Qin government, such as the construction of the Great Wall and the Grand Canal, generated resentment among the people due to the heavy taxes and forced labor involved. This frustration, coupled with the constant waves of rebel groups that overwhelmed the Qin court, eventually led to the downfall of the dynasty. Disease may have played a role in weakening the population, but it was not the primary cause of the collapse.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Chinese schools of thought came out of a period of
- A.
Domestic harmony
- B.
Chaotic disunity
- C.
Unified authority
- D.
Centralized power
Correct Answer
B. Chaotic disunityExplanation
Chinese schools of thought emerged during a time of chaotic disunity in ancient China. This period, known as the Warring States period, was characterized by constant warfare, political instability, and social unrest. It was a time when various states and factions were vying for power, leading to a lack of centralized authority and widespread disorder. This environment of chaos and disunity provided fertile ground for the development of different philosophical schools, as scholars and intellectuals sought to make sense of the turbulent times and propose solutions for societal problems.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Daoism and Confucianism differ on the topic of
- A.
Family values
- B.
The existence of a god
- C.
Reincarnation
- D.
Social involvement
Correct Answer
D. Social involvementExplanation
Daoism and Confucianism differ on the topic of social involvement. Confucianism emphasizes the importance of social roles and responsibilities, advocating for active participation in society and the maintenance of social order. On the other hand, Daoism promotes a more passive and individualistic approach, focusing on personal cultivation, harmony with nature, and the pursuit of inner peace. Daoists believe that excessive social involvement can lead to unnecessary stress and conflict, while Confucianism emphasizes the need for individuals to contribute to the betterment of society through their actions and relationships.Rate this question:
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- 18.
How did the Qin state become dominant in China?
- A.
Through cooperation with neighboring states
- B.
By genocide aimed at other strong states
- C.
By the gradual conquest of other states
- D.
Through its diplomacy that encouraged allies to help
Correct Answer
C. By the gradual conquest of other statesExplanation
The Qin state became dominant in China through the gradual conquest of other states. This means that they gradually conquered and absorbed other states, expanding their territory and influence. This strategy allowed the Qin state to gradually increase their power and control over the region, ultimately leading to their dominance in China.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Among the many accomplishments of the First Emperor, which one persisted into the Han dynasty?
- A.
Formation of administrative districts
- B.
Adherence to Legalism
- C.
Persecution of dissenters
- D.
Suppression of Confucianism
Correct Answer
A. Formation of administrative districtsExplanation
The formation of administrative districts persisted into the Han dynasty. This refers to the establishment of a bureaucratic system that divided the empire into different regions, each with its own administrative structure. This system allowed for efficient governance and continued to be utilized during the Han dynasty and beyond.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Along with his scorn for other classes, Qin Shihuangdi failed to consider the concerns of the average peasant. Which of the following most aggravated them?
- A.
Economic policies that favored trade
- B.
Paranoia that led to the persecution of officials
- C.
Massive conscription for public works
- D.
Taxation that favored scholars and bureaucrats
Correct Answer
C. Massive conscription for public worksExplanation
Qin Shihuangdi's massive conscription for public works most aggravated the average peasants. This policy involved forcibly recruiting a large number of peasants to work on various construction projects, such as the Great Wall of China and the emperor's mausoleum. The peasants had to leave their homes and families for extended periods, enduring harsh conditions and backbreaking labor. This not only disrupted their lives but also deprived them of their livelihoods and agricultural production. The conscription policy showed a disregard for the concerns and well-being of the average peasants, exacerbating their hardships and discontent.Rate this question:
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- 21.
While the Qin was already weakened by earlier dissent and rebellions, what allowed Liu Bang to produce its ultimate defeat?
- A.
A devoted army
- B.
Better equipment
- C.
Charismatic leadership
- D.
Little or no competition
Correct Answer
A. A devoted armyExplanation
Liu Bang was able to produce the ultimate defeat of the weakened Qin dynasty due to his devoted army. This suggests that the loyalty and dedication of his soldiers played a crucial role in his victory. They were likely willing to fight and sacrifice for him, which gave him a significant advantage over the Qin forces. This shows the importance of having a loyal and committed army in achieving success in warfare.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Han Wudi is recognized as the strongest Han emperor. What would be his most important contribution to the administrations of later dynasties?
- A.
The conquest of northern Korea and Vietnam
- B.
The formation of a Confucian educational system
- C.
The continuation of Qin road building
- D.
The establishment of imperial monopolies on iron and salt
Correct Answer
B. The formation of a Confucian educational systemExplanation
Han Wudi's most important contribution to the administrations of later dynasties was the formation of a Confucian educational system. This system played a crucial role in shaping the governance and social structure of China for centuries to come. It emphasized the teachings of Confucianism, promoting moral values, social harmony, and the cultivation of scholars and officials. The Confucian educational system became the foundation for the civil service examination system, which selected government officials based on their knowledge of Confucian texts. This system ensured a meritocratic bureaucracy and helped maintain stability and continuity in Chinese governance throughout different dynasties.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Despite the change in dynasties, domestic life changed very little. Chinese patriarchy continued and was supported by
- A.
The Confucian classics
- B.
Daoist principles
- C.
Government enforcement
- D.
Legalist ideas
Correct Answer
A. The Confucian classicsExplanation
The correct answer is the Confucian classics. Despite the change in dynasties, Chinese patriarchy remained unchanged because it was supported by the teachings of the Confucian classics. These texts emphasized the importance of filial piety, obedience to authority, and the hierarchical structure of society, all of which were central to the Chinese patriarchy. The Confucian classics were highly influential in shaping Chinese society and were often used by the ruling class to maintain social order and control.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Several technologies improved trade and commerce for the Han, including
- A.
Compasses
- B.
Bronze tools
- C.
Sericulture
- D.
Wheeled vehicles
- E.
Improved ships
Correct Answer
C. SericultureExplanation
Sericulture is the correct answer because it refers to the production of silk, which was a highly valuable and sought-after commodity during the Han dynasty. The Han dynasty was known for its advancements in silk production, and silk became a major export item, contributing to the growth of trade and commerce. The production of silk not only boosted the economy but also played a significant role in cultural exchanges with other regions and the development of the Silk Road.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The Han Dynasty began its decline when it could not solve the problem of
- A.
Enormous taxation
- B.
Drought and plague
- C.
Land distribution
- D.
Weak rulers
Correct Answer
C. Land distributionExplanation
The Han Dynasty began its decline due to the problem of land distribution. This issue arose when the dynasty failed to effectively distribute land among its people, leading to social unrest and economic instability. The unequal distribution of land resulted in widespread dissatisfaction among the population, causing a decline in agricultural productivity and weakening the overall stability of the dynasty.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The Zhou concept of the Mandate of Heaven required the ruler to govern well in order to maintain social stability. Which of the following groups most clearly represent a failure on the part of the Han ruler?
- A.
The Xiongnu nomads
- B.
The scholar-officials produced by universities
- C.
The eunuchs within the imperial court
- D.
The Yellow Turbans
Correct Answer
D. The Yellow TurbansExplanation
The Yellow Turbans represent a failure on the part of the Han ruler because they were a rebellious group that emerged during the late Eastern Han dynasty in China. They were led by Taoist leaders and rose up against the Han government due to economic hardships and corruption. The fact that the Yellow Turbans were able to gain significant support and challenge the authority of the Han ruler indicates a failure in governance and the inability to maintain social stability.Rate this question:
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- 27.
While Qin Shihuangdi used Legalism tomaintain tight control and foce unity on China, which policies unified the Chinese more directly and lasted much longer?
- A.
The participation by peasants from around China in building the Great Wall and the standardization of weights, measurements and scripts
- B.
The standardization of weights, measurements and scripts and the high enrollment in Qin Shihuangdi's army forces
- C.
The standardization of weights, measurements and scripts and the improved road systems built for military use
- D.
The participation by peasants from around China in building the Great Wall and the improved road systems built for military use
Correct Answer
B. The standardization of weights, measurements and scripts and the high enrollment in Qin Shihuangdi's army forcesExplanation
The policies that directly unified the Chinese people and had a longer-lasting impact were the standardization of weights, measurements, and scripts, as well as the high enrollment in Qin Shihuangdi's army forces. Standardizing these aspects ensured consistency and communication throughout the empire, promoting unity. Additionally, the large enrollment in the army created a sense of national identity and loyalty to the state, further strengthening unity. These policies had a more direct and lasting impact compared to the participation of peasants in building the Great Wall or the improved road systems.Rate this question:
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- 28.
During the chaotic Period of Warring States, the Chinese looked to different philosophies for stability. Neither Confucianism nor Daoism includes the worship of any deities. What might be one reason a true religion with dieties does not originate in China?
- A.
The Chinese are inherently practical people who desire guidelines for daily life rather than promises of eternal life
- B.
Veneration of ancestors as practiced since ancient times fulfilled the need for protective spirituality
- C.
By killing scholars and burning books, Qin Shihuangdi managed to convince the Chinese that it was safer to have no beliefs
- D.
Daoism promotes meditation that serves the same purpose as prayer
Correct Answer
B. Veneration of ancestors as practiced since ancient times fulfilled the need for protective spiritualityExplanation
The Chinese practice of veneration of ancestors has been deeply rooted in their culture since ancient times. This practice involves honoring and worshiping deceased family members, believing that they can provide protection and guidance to the living. This belief in ancestral spirits fulfilling the role of protective spirituality may have satisfied the spiritual needs of the Chinese people, making the emergence of a true religion with deities unnecessary.Rate this question:
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