Lord Shang Yang was a major contributor to the Legalist philosophy in China during the Warring States period. Legalism emphasized strict obedience to the legal system through harsh punishments for any crime. This philosophy was implemented in the state of Qin to concentrate workforce and resources on strengthening the military, which helped Qin gain control over more territory. Legalism advocated for absolute rule by the sovereign and allowing cruel punishments to ensure obedience from the public.

1. Started 475–221 BCE somewhere in China
By:Cindy, Bradley, Tim, Tanner

2. Lord Shang Yang
• Main contributor for Legalism in
China
• Important statesman of Qin
during warring state period
• His legalist philosophy caused
him to impose severe
punishments for any crime.

3. What Legalism is
• Legalism is a philosophy that emphasizes
Strict obedience through the use of the
legal system.
• This is achieved using harsh punishments
regardless of the crime committed.

4. How it was implemented
• Legalism was implemented in the state of Qin
during the warring states period in order the
concentrate work forces on resources and the
military.
• This helped Qin develop economically and
strengthen the military, helping them win
control of more land.

5. Quotes from primary sources
• “You should not forget about the law even for one moment,
you should weaken the adherents and conquer the public
speakers. You should suppress all discussions and arguments
and govern only according to the law. When people are
stupid, they are easy to govern.” - Shang Yang
• “It is dangerous for a ruler to trust others. He who trusts
others can be manipulated by others.” - Han Fei Tzu, Political
theorist of the Legalist School

6. How it could be used today
• One person is given absolute rule.
• Cruel and unusual punishments would
become legal in order to ensure obedience
• Crowd control would be ready in case of riots.
• Basically like a dictatorship