Understanding World Societies:
Printed Page 113

Chapter Chronology

> CHAPTER 4 STUDY GUIDE

PUT IT ALL TOGETHER

Now, take a step back and try to explain the big picture. Remember to use specific examples from the chapter in your answers.

DEVELOPMENT OF EARLY CHINESE SOCIETY

  • How did geography shape the way Chinese culture spread and developed?
  • What role did the Shang king play in Shang society? What was the source of his power and legitimacy?
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ZHOU DYNASTY AND THE WARRING STATES PERIOD

  • What innovations did the Zhou introduce into Chinese society and politics? What were there consequences?
  • What were the social and cultural consequences of political decentralization during the Warring States Period?
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CHINESE PHILOSOPHY IN THE CLASSICAL AGE

  • What role do hierarchical relationships play in Confucian’s philosophy? What light does this shed on Chinese beliefs and values in the Classical Age?
  • How would you explain the fact that the Warring States period, a time of unrest and conflict, was also the golden age of Chinese philosophy?
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LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

  • What similarities and differences do you see between Chinese society and government under the Shang and society and government in the early kingdoms of Mesopotamia? How would you explain the similarities and differences you note?
  • How would you explain the long-term influence of Confucianism on Chinese society and culture? What elements of Confucianism might explain its enduring appeal?
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