Advanced Placement (AP) World History Practice Exam 2026 - Free AP World History Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer relates to the practice of recruiting bureaucrats based on educational achievement, a concept that aligns closely with the philosophical ideas promoted by Xunzi. Xunzi, a prominent Confucian thinker, emphasized the importance of education and the cultivation of moral character in leadership and governance. He argued that human nature is inherently flawed and requires education and discipline to develop virtue.

In later Chinese imperial history, particularly during the Han Dynasty and beyond, this notion was solidified in the imperial examination system, which aimed to ensure that bureaucrats and government officials were selected based on merit and knowledge rather than family background or nobility. By prioritizing education and intellectual ability in bureaucratic recruitment, the state sought to create a competent and virtuous administration, which is reflective of Xunzi's emphasis on the necessity of education for effective governance.

This meritocratic approach not only improved administrative efficiency but also promoted social mobility based on talent and learning, contributing to a more stable and effective bureaucratic structure throughout later periods of Chinese history.