Read the following passage from the Analects.

Question

“The Master said: ‘In ruling a state of a thousand chariots, approach your duties with reverence and be trustworthy in what you say; avoid excesses in expenditures and love your fellow men; employ the labor of the common people only in the right seasons.’”

What conclusion can be drawn about how Confucianism influenced the social class system between Zhou rulers and their subjects?(1 point)
Responses

Rulers understood that peasant farmers had to be treated respectfully so that they could produce enough food to feed the general population.
Rulers understood that peasant farmers had to be treated respectfully so that they could produce enough food to feed the general population.

Rulers understood that they could execute peasant farmers who did not do their duty to raise enough food for the general population.
Rulers understood that they could execute peasant farmers who did not do their duty to raise enough food for the general population.

Rulers understood that they had the power to force peasant farmers to work at all times of the year.
Rulers understood that they had the power to force peasant farmers to work at all times of the year.

Rulers understood that the military existed so that it could intimidate peasant farmers to produce food for the general population.

Answer 1

The conclusion that can be drawn about how Confucianism influenced the social class system between Zhou rulers and their subjects is:

Rulers understood that peasant farmers had to be treated respectfully so that they could produce enough food to feed the general population.

This choice aligns with the emphasis on reverence, trustworthiness, and respect for the labor of common people as indicated in the passage. Confucianism stresses the importance of virtuous leadership and understanding the needs of the people, which includes treating peasant farmers with respect to ensure the stability and productivity of society.