Social Structure
Han dynasty society was deeply shaped by Confucian ideals, family hierarchy, and a structured system of occupations that ranked people according to their importance to the state.
Confucian Social Hierarchy
- Society organized around Confucian ideals: hierarchy, filial piety, and respect for scholars, with the “Four Occupations” placing scholar-officials above farmers, then artisans, then merchants.
- Family life was patrilineal, with arranged marriages and a strong emphasis on ancestral rites and the authority of the male head of household.
Video: Social Structure Overview
Watch this short video to review the idea of social hierarchy and the Four Occupations in ancient China.
The Four Occupations
The Four Occupations were an important social classification system in the Han dynasty. They ranked people based on their role and usefulness to the state, reflecting Confucian values and economic priorities.
Shi (Scholars)
The shi were the learned elite who studied to become government officials and bureaucrats. They held the highest social status because their knowledge was considered vital for governance and moral leadership. Over time, they evolved from warrior nobles into a scholarly gentry class that shaped the civil service system.
Nong (Peasant Farmers)
Farmers were highly valued for producing food, the foundation of the economy and society. Agriculture sustained the population, supported the army, and generated taxes. For this reason, farmers ranked just below scholars.
Gong (Artisans & Craftsmen)
Artisans created essential goods such as tools, weapons, pottery, and textiles. Their work was important for daily life and state needs, but they ranked below farmers since agriculture was seen as more crucial to society.
Shang (Merchants & Traders)
Merchants were placed at the lowest rank among the four occupations. Although many became wealthy, Confucian philosophy viewed them as less socially valuable because they profited from the labor of others and could disrupt the natural social order.
Although this hierarchy influenced laws and social expectations, it was not a rigid caste system. People could move between classifications based on occupation, and wealth did not always match social rank. Below these groups were low-status or “mean” professions such as entertainers and prostitutes.
In summary, the Four Occupations structured Han society by ranking scholars highest, followed by farmers, artisans, and finally merchants, reflecting Confucian ideas about morality, stability, and economic value.