Final answer:
The early Chinese's physical geography and history contributed to a collective ethnocentric view, influenced by the need to create stability and unity within their diverse terrain and regional cultures. This is reflected in the formation of centralized political control and common culture through dynasties and schools of thought.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early Chinese civilization's physical geography and history shaped their cultural and political development in many ways. The various migrant groups and the formation of enduring dynasties like the Shang, Zhou, and Qin highlighted an emphasis on centralized political control and common culture. This included the development of a written script and the establishment of schools of thought and religions such as Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism. These elements not only facilitated the formation of a cohesive state but also reinforced a certain view of the world.
The immense and varied geography of China encouraged regional differences and highlighted the necessity for self-sufficiency and security, fostering an ethnocentric view. Successful dynasties had to contend with the challenges and advantages offered by China's diverse terrain, and thus, political and cultural institutions were built to unify and stabilize these realms. Given this context and considering the various explanations by historians for China's period of isolationism, it is reasonable to assert that physical geography and history combined to give the early Chinese an ethnocentric view, making option b) the most accurate answer.