Legalism is a philosophical current that emerged in China during the Warring States period, between the XNUMXth and XNUMXrd centuries BC. This current of thought had a great influence on the formation of Chinese thought and the structuring of the country's legal system. In this glossary, we will explore in detail what legalism is in philosophy, its main characteristics and how it differs from other philosophical currents.
Origin and historical context
Legalism emerged at a troubled time in Chinese history, marked by constant wars between the different states that made up the country. In this context of political and social instability, legalist philosophers sought to find a solution to the disorder and lack of unity that plagued China.
Loyalists believed that the only way to ensure stability and social order was through a system of strict laws and severe punishments for those who broke them. They defended the idea that the government should have absolute control over society, imposing its laws in an authoritarian manner.
Main characteristics of legalism
Legalism has some striking characteristics that differentiate it from other philosophical currents. One of the main characteristics is the emphasis on law and order as a way of ensuring social stability. Loyalists believed that the law should be strictly enforced and that punishments for transgressors should be severe.
Furthermore, legalists defended the idea that the government should have absolute control over society. They believed that the ruler should have unlimited powers and that the population should obey his orders without question. This authoritarian view of government is one of the most striking characteristics of legalism.
Another important characteristic of legalism is the appreciation of efficiency and utility. Loyalists believed that government should be efficient and pragmatic, always seeking the well-being of society. They defended the idea that government actions should be guided by utility and collective benefit, and not by moral or ethical principles.
Relationship with other philosophical currents
Legalism differs from other Chinese philosophical currents, such as Confucianism and Taoism, by its authoritarian view of government and its emphasis on law and order. While Confucianism values morality and ethics as a way of governing, legalism prioritizes efficiency and utility.
Furthermore, legalism is opposed to Taoism, which values spontaneity and non-action as a way of achieving harmony. Loyalists believed that government action was necessary to ensure social stability, while Taoists defended the idea that the government should interfere as little as possible in people's lives.
Influence of legalism in China
Legalism had a great influence on the formation of Chinese thought and the structuring of the country's legal system. During the Qin dynasty, which ruled China between 221 and 206 BC, legalist ideas were adopted as the basis for organizing the government and legal system.
Emperor Qin Shi Huang, known for unifying China and building the Great Wall, was a strong supporter of legalism. He implemented a series of reforms based on legalist ideas, such as the standardization of laws and the centralization of power in the hands of the emperor.
Despite having been an influential philosophical current in China, legalism went into decline after the fall of the Qin dynasty. Other philosophical currents, such as Confucianism and Taoism, gained more space and influence in Chinese society.
Conclusion
In short, legalism is a philosophical current that emerged in China during a period of political and social instability. Loyalists believed in the need for authoritarian government, based on strict laws and harsh punishments, to ensure stability and social order. Despite having been influential in shaping Chinese thought, Legalism went into decline after the fall of the Qin dynasty.
