Basic assumption for the Chinese dynasties right to govern. The philosophical tenet that Heaven granted emperors the right to rule based on their ability to govern and their righteousness and was used throughout the history of China to validate and legitimize the rule of the emperors. Established during the Zhou dynasty meaning that power was bestowed by Heaven and governance was determined by moral quality. Bad conduct could make a ruling dynasty lose its right to govern, which could be signaled by natural disasters.
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