Question

What belief system was closely tied to civil service in China and contributed to the strength and longevity of its bureaucracy?

Answer 1

The belief system closely tied to civil service in China that contributed to the strength and longevity of its bureaucracy is Confucianism. Confucianism emphasizes the importance of education, moral integrity, and a hierarchical social order, which influenced the establishment of the imperial examination system. This system was designed to select government officials based on merit rather than nepotism or aristocratic connections. As a result, Confucian ideals promoted a bureaucratic system that valued skilled and educated individuals, leading to a stable and effective governance structure for centuries in China.