Idea

Legalism

Forget virtue. Build a system of rewards and punishments so clear that personal goodness becomes unnecessary.

Thinkers Who Shaped This Idea

Classical China· 571–233 BCE

Shang Yang

c. 390 BCE – 338 BCE

Shen Dao

c. 350 BCE – c. 275 BCE

Xunzi

c. 310 BCE – c. 235 BCE

Han Feizi

c. 280 BCE – 233 BCE

Classical India· 600 BCE–550 CE

Chanakya

c. 375 BCE – c. 283 BCE