Name three major Chinese philosophies and one core idea of each.

• A. Confucianism — ren, filial piety; Daoism — dao, harmony with nature; Legalism — strong centralized state and strict laws.
• B. Confucianism — dao; Daoism — ren; Legalism — worship of ancestors.
• C. Confucianism — military virtue; Daoism — wealth; Legalism — ritual purity.
• D. Confucianism — isolation; Daoism — materialism; Legalism — democracy.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is knowing the central themes of China’s major philosophies and how they shape behavior and society. Confucianism centers on ren, the virtue of benevolence and humane treatment, which underpins filial piety and orderly relationships within family and society. Daoism focuses on the Dao, the Way, encouraging living in harmony with nature and simplicity rather than force or excessive intervention. Legalism emphasizes a strong centralized state and strict laws to control behavior and maintain order, often prioritizing concrete governance over personal virtue.

This arrangement matches how these traditions are traditionally understood in history: Confucian ethics guide social roles and duties, Daoist emphasis on natural order and balance, and Legalist approach to governance through law and centralized authority. The other options mix up these core ideas—Confucianism with notions like military virtue or isolation; Daoism with wealth or materialism; Legalism with ancestor worship or democracy—none of which accurately reflect the fundamental beliefs of these schools.