聚天下英才而用之：一部中国科举制度的千年演进史

Core Viewpoint - The examination system in ancient China, known as the imperial examination or "keju," served as a means to select officials through public examinations, promoting social mobility and breaking the constraints of aristocratic lineage. Established during the Sui dynasty, it flourished through the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties, ultimately ending in the late Qing dynasty, and significantly contributed to the education and development of Chinese society [1]. Group 1: Evolution of the Examination System - The tradition of valuing talent has been a hallmark of Chinese culture, transitioning from hereditary systems to merit-based selections, such as the "xiang ju li xuan" during the pre-Qin period, which allowed local recommendations for talented individuals to serve in government [2]. - The Zhou dynasty implemented a system where local gentry selected individuals based on virtue and talent, leading to formal recommendations for government positions after rigorous assessments [3]. - The Qin dynasty introduced a military meritocracy, breaking the hereditary system by appointing officials based on military achievements [4]. - The Han dynasty's "chajü" system became the mainstream method for selecting officials, with annual examinations assessing various virtues and talents [5]. Group 2: Development and Standardization - The Nine-Rank System during the Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern dynasties categorized individuals based on family background, talent, and moral character, influencing the selection process [6]. - The Sui dynasty abolished the Nine-Rank System and established a more open examination system, allowing candidates to take exams without needing recommendations from officials [7]. - The Tang dynasty further developed the examination system, creating a two-tiered examination structure and emphasizing the importance of testing as the primary means of selecting talent [8]. Group 3: Impact and Legacy - The examination system was instrumental in breaking the monopoly of aristocratic families on government positions, allowing for a more equitable selection of officials based on merit [31]. - It fostered a culture of education and scholarship, leading to the establishment of various educational institutions and a societal emphasis on learning [32]. - The influence of the examination system extended beyond China, impacting the selection processes in neighboring countries and even Western nations, establishing a "civil service examination" tradition [33].