Final answer:
The concept that shaped social relationships and encouraged obedience to the state is filial piety, a key virtue in Confucian thought emphasizing respect and loyalty to one's parents, elders, and by extension, to the state authority, reinforcing societal stability. So, the correct answer is option b.
Step-by-step explanation:
Concept Influencing Social Relationships and State Obedience
The concept that shaped social relationships and encouraged obedience to the state is filial piety. Originating from Confucian thought, filial piety denotes a virtue of respect for one's parents, elders, and ancestors. It has traditionally played a significant role in shaping social hierarchies and individual behavior within a community.
In historical contexts, particularly within Chinese society, filial piety was emphasized to ensure that children would remain loyal and obedient to their parents, and by extension, to state authorities. This reinforced social stability and the power dynamics prevalent within these societies.
Filial piety reached a level where it signified absolute obedience to parents and seniors, often at the cost of personal desires or autonomy. It played a part in defining the expectations of individuals in terms of their civic duties and often was used to promote a hierarchical societal structure that centered around familial loyalty and duty to the state.
So, the correct answer is option b.