Which belief system claims humans are naturally evil and must be ruled by harsh laws?

Which belief system claims humans are naturally evil and must be ruled by harsh laws?

• A. Daoism
• B. Confucianism
• C. Legalism
• D. Buddhism

Answer: (C)

Beliefs about human nature and how to govern shape the rules a society uses. Legalism argues that people are naturally selfish and prone to disorder, so only a strong, centralized state with strict, clear laws and harsh punishments can keep society in order. The idea is that fear of punishment and the ruler’s absolute authority enforce compliance, rather than virtue or moral example. This stands in contrast to other systems: Confucianism emphasizes ruling through benevolence and moral leadership; Daoism suggests minimal intervention and alignment with natural harmony; Buddhism focuses on ending suffering and personal enlightenment. Because the statement describes humans as naturally evil and needing harsh laws to control them, Legalism is the best fit.

Beliefs about human nature and how to govern shape the rules a society uses. Legalism argues that people are naturally selfish and prone to disorder, so only a strong, centralized state with strict, clear laws and harsh punishments can keep society in order. The idea is that fear of punishment and the ruler’s absolute authority enforce compliance, rather than virtue or moral example.

This stands in contrast to other systems: Confucianism emphasizes ruling through benevolence and moral leadership; Daoism suggests minimal intervention and alignment with natural harmony; Buddhism focuses on ending suffering and personal enlightenment. Because the statement describes humans as naturally evil and needing harsh laws to control them, Legalism is the best fit.