Which of the following comparisons accurately reflects Han social ideals?
A) Peasants were subject to a range of controls, while merchants were praised for the wealth they produced in society.
B) Peasants were honored for their productive labors, while merchants were subject to a range of controls.
C) Peasants and merchants were both praised for their productivity.
D) Peasants and merchants were both distrusted as uneducated and uncultured.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In Han China, Confucian ideals placed a high value on agricultural work and the peasants who performed it, viewing them as the backbone of society. Merchants, on the other hand, were often viewed with suspicion and disdain because their wealth came from trade and commerce rather than from producing goods directly. This led to various social and legal controls being placed on merchants to limit their influence and status.

Which of the Following Comparisons Accurately Reflects Han Social Ideals