Confucian Classics were made the cornerstone of the Chinese civil service examination system simply because it has been the velocity of the people.After the appearance of this system students treated the civil service system as a stepping stone towards government employment

Answer 1

The Confucian Classics indeed became the cornerstone of the Chinese civil service examination system, which was established during the Sui Dynasty (581-618 AD) and further developed in subsequent dynasties, particularly during the Tang and Song dynasties. This system was rooted in Confucian philosophy, which emphasized moral integrity, social harmony, and the importance of governance based on virtue.

The decision to use Confucian texts as the basis for the examinations served multiple purposes:

1. Cultural Continuity: Confucianism had a profound influence on Chinese culture and society. By adopting Confucian Classics, the civil service examination system reinforced prevailing moral values and social norms, thus promoting stability and continuity within the societal fabric.

2. Meritocracy: The examination system promoted the idea of merit over hereditary privilege. It allowed individuals, regardless of their family background, to enhance their social standing based on their knowledge and abilities. This was particularly appealing in a society that valued education.

3. Government Efficiency: Trained civil servants who were well-versed in Confucian principles were believed to be better suited for governance. By selecting officials through rigorous examinations, the imperial state aimed to create a competent bureaucratic class that could effectively manage the complexities of governance.

4. Educational Motivation: The prospect of passing the civil service examinations created a strong incentive for education. Many students and aspiring officials devoted years to studying the Confucian Classics, viewing the examination as a crucial pathway to gainful employment in the government. This aspiration transformed educational pursuits into a societal norm.

As a result, the civil service examination system became a significant influence in shaping the aspirations of the Chinese populace, incentivizing a culture of scholarship and public service. Students treated the rigorous preparation for these exams not only as an academic endeavor but also as a means to secure a respected position within the government, thereby contributing to their social mobility and influence.

This interaction between Confucian education and the civil service system played a vital role in forming the administrative backbone of imperial China, persisting in various forms until the late 19th century when the examination system was ultimately abolished.