Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Emperor Qin a Legalist


Kelly McCusker-Brown     Front Page News Story                      2-5-12
Emperor Qin a Legalist
By: Kelly McCusker-Brown
September 5, 221 B.C.
China News
Xianyang, Emperor Qin and his government officials have decided to follow the philosophy of legalism. Emperor Qin tells us, “I believe that everyone is basically bad, and I need control over my dynasty.”
Li Si the chancellor of the Qin dynasty says, “I dislike the ways of Confucianism and I believe the ways of legalism will make China much better behaved.” Confucianism has been in China for many years and Qin decides that he wants China to have many laws and harsh punishments for those who disobey. Ming Lau a citizen of Qin tells us, “Truly, I’m against this whole philosophy of legalism. I just don’t get how someone could get punished for the littlest crimes.”
Now it is illegal to whine about Qin’s government. If you even suggest that things might be improved you would be put to death without a trial. Fei Zi a government official says, “I agree with the ways of legalism and like our Emperor Qin, I dislike the teachings of Confucius and do not believe in any education for the common man.” Qin thinks the harsh punishments he created will help China have the discipline needed to work hard.

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