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Legalism (Chinese), as stated, 3rd c. BCE

Ancient / Classical · stated scope

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Legalism is a political ideology that centers governance on codified law, state authority, and administrative procedure rather than moral virtue or ritual. It developed in the Warring States period of ancient China (roughly the 5th–3rd centuries BCE) and reached its fullest institutional expression under the Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE). It is principally associated with thinkers such as Shang Yang, Shen Buhai, and Han Fei, and with texts including the Book of Lord Shang and the Han Feizi.

Cluster:Ordered Tradition

Tradition & Continuity and Sanctity & Transcendence run high with Authority & Hierarchy elevated, while Non-Maleficence sits low. Continuity is maintained through hierarchy rather than restraint, which is what separates it from Faithful Observance.

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