Legalism, also known as Fa Jia, is a political and philosophical school of thought that emerged during the Warring States period in ancient China. One of the main principles of Legalism is the emphasis on law and order over morality. This means that Legalists believe in strict adherence to laws and regulations in order to maintain social order, rather than relying on individual morality.

One of the key reasons why Legalism emphasizes law and order over morality is its belief that human nature is inherently selfish and prone to corruption. Legalists view individuals as inherently selfish and driven by their own desires and interests. Therefore, they argue that relying on individual morality to govern society is ineffective and will ultimately lead to chaos and disorder. Instead, Legalists believe that strict laws and regulations are necessary to control and restrain individuals' selfish tendencies.

Furthermore, Legalism places a strong emphasis on the power and authority of the ruler. Legalists believe that a strong and centralized government is essential for maintaining social order. This means that the ruler must have absolute control and authority over the people, and the laws must be enforced strictly and without exception. In this way, Legalism prioritizes the stability and order of society over individual rights and freedoms.

Moreover, Legalism also emphasizes the use of harsh punishments and rewards to maintain social order. Legalists believe that strict and severe punishments are necessary to deter individuals from breaking the law and to maintain social stability. On the other hand, rewards are used to incentivize individuals to follow the law and contribute to the well-being of the state. This approach is based on the belief that individuals are primarily motivated by self-interest, and therefore, strict laws and punishments are necessary to keep them in line.

In contrast to Legalism, other philosophical schools of thought in ancient China, such as Confucianism, emphasized the importance of morality and virtue in governing society. Confucianism believed in the concept of ren, which refers to the moral character and virtue of an individual. Confucianists argued that if individuals possess moral integrity and follow ethical principles, then society will naturally be harmonious and orderly.

In conclusion, Legalism emphasizes law and order over morality due to its belief in the inherent selfishness of human nature, the importance of a strong and centralized government, and the use of strict punishments and rewards. While this approach may have been effective in maintaining social order during ancient times, it is often criticized for its lack of consideration for individual rights and freedoms.