Final answer:
Historically, 'legalism' refers to a Chinese political philosophy advocating for strict laws and harsh punishment to ensure societal compliance. It is a doctrine focused on state order, not related to the Christian theological concept of adding conditions to salvation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term legalism in the context of Chinese history refers to a school of political philosophy that emerged during the Warring States period. It is associated with the relentless enactment and strict enforcement of laws, designed to maintain peace and order within the state. Legalism emphasizes the idea that people inherently act out of self-interest, and therefore only the law and its severe consequences can ensure societal compliance and harmony.
Legalists like Han Feizi believed that moral codes would be followed only when it served the individual's interests, positioning the state's survival as paramount. In their view, laws had to be clear and punishments severe to guarantee obedience, with the ruler's actions justified as long as they benefited the state, including in foreign policy. Legalistic thought influenced the governance of states, focusing on a centralized authority, a detailed legal code, and a system of rewards and punishments.
Thus, the correct answer to the student's question: The term legalism refers to teachings that add conditions to salvation. is not accurately reflected in the philosophy of legalism related to Chinese history. Instead, based on historical context, the term is more closely associated with a political doctrine that seeks to maintain order through the use of stringent laws and harsh penalties. This interpretation diverges from the Christian theological concept of legalism, which often concerns the imposition of additional conditions for salvation.