Name: ___________________________________ Class: __________ Date: ___________

What Chinese Philosopher Are You?

Legalism

During the Warring States Period, a philosophy called Legalism was developed based on the teachings
of Hanfeizi. The Qin dynasty ruler Shi Huangdi was a strong supporter of this philosophy and ordered
books that disagreed with this philosophy burnt. He created a strict set of laws to rule the people of
China and ordered that all regions of China follow these laws. Some legalist ideas are written below.
Circle your agreement with them and then add up your score to see how much of a Legalist you are.

(1) People are naturally evil.

Disagree
Agree Strongly (4) (3) (2) (1)
Strongly
Explanation:

(2) People need to be controlled by strict laws and punishments.

Disagree
Agree Strongly (4) (3) (2) (1)
Strongly
Explanation:

(3) The laws and punishments should apply to everybody even nobles and the rich.
Disagree
Agree Strongly (4) (3) (2) (1)
Strongly
Explanation:

(4) People who obey the laws should be rewarded.

Disagree
Agree Strongly (4) (3) (2) (1)
Strongly
Explanation:
(5) Rulers decisions must always be obeyed.
Disagree
Agree Strongly (4) (3) (2) (1)
Strongly
Explanation:

6) People should not have individual rights. Their actions must benefit the state.

Agree Disagree
(4) (3) (2) (1)
Strongly Strongly

Explanation:

Exit Ticket:
Which of Legalism’s ideas do you agree with the most? Why?

Which of Legalism’s ideas do you disagree with the most? Why?