What was with the Hundred Schools of Philosophy?
The Hundred Schools of Thought referred to a group of ideologists and schools of thought from the Warring States Period in ancient China. They advocated different political, philosophical, and religious views and left a far-reaching impact on Chinese history. The most representative schools of thought included Confucianism, Taoism, Mohism, Legalism, Military, Famous School, Yin-Yang School, and novelists. Their respective ideas and theories had certain characteristics, but they all had a profound impact on Chinese history and culture. Confucianism emphasized benevolence, etiquette, and loyalty. It advocated cultivating talents through education to promote social progress. Taoism emphasized "nature" and "inaction" and advocated respecting nature and following nature to achieve inner peace and freedom. The Mohist School emphasized "universal love","non-aggression" and "frugality", advocating equality, justice, thrift and struggle to promote social harmony and progress. Legalism, on the other hand, emphasized the rule of law, authority, and execution. It advocated the development of society through strict laws and management. The militarists emphasized strategy, tactics, and courage. They advocated using strategy and tactics to defeat the enemy and promote the development of the country. Famous Scholars emphasized debate and thought, and advocated the advancement of culture through debate and thought. The Yin-Yang School emphasized on "Yin-Yang" and "Five Elements" and advocated studying the universe, the human body, and natural phenomena through the theory of Yin-Yang and Five Elements. Novelists used fictional stories to promote the development of culture, leaving an important cultural heritage for Chinese culture. The emergence of the Hundred Schools of Thought symbolized the richness and variety of ancient Chinese culture, which provided important support for the development of Chinese history and culture.