Legalism (Chinese philosophy) Facts for Kids

Legalism (Chinese: 法家; pinyin: Fǎjiā) is one of Sima Tan's six schools of thought in Chinese philosophy.

This tradition emphasises practicality, and avoids moral questions. It has been compared to Realpolitik and Machiavelli. It has influenced Taoism and Confucianism, and is still influential today.

Shang Yang (390–338 BC) was a leading reformer of his time. His ideas lay behind legalism.

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Between Mozi's background as an engineer and his pacifist leanings, the Mohists became experts at building fortifications and sieges.
Small seal scripts were standardized by Li Si after the First Emperor of China gained control of the country, evolving from the larger seal scripts of previous dynasties. The 12 characters on this slab of floor brick affirm that it is an auspicious moment for the First Emperor to ascend the throne, as the country is united and no men will be dying along the road.
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Small bronze plaque containing an edict from the second emperor of the Qin dynasty. 209 BC.
Terracotta Army
Han state bronze candle holder
The earliest known written documentation for the Chinese abacus, the Suan Pan, dates to the 2nd century BC (its original design is unknown).
Zhaoming mirror frame, Western Han dynasty
Mold for making banliang coins
The people of Qi have a saying – "A man may have wisdom and discernment, but that is not like embracing the favourable opportunity. A man may have instruments of husbandry, but that is not like waiting for the farming seasons." Mencius
"If one has regulations based on objective standards and criteria and apply these to the mass of ministers, then that ruler cannot be duped by cunning fraudulence." —Han Fei
A modern marble statue of the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang
Juyong Pass

Legalism (Chinese philosophy) facts for kids

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