Legalism, also known as Fa Jia, is a philosophical school of thought that originated in ancient China during the Warring States period (475-221 BCE). This ideology emphasized the importance of strict laws and harsh punishments in maintaining social order and stability. In Legalism, the concept of social hierarchy is viewed as a necessary tool for maintaining control and ensuring the obedience of the people.

According to Legalist thinkers, society should be structured in a hierarchical manner with a clear distinction between the ruler and the ruled. This hierarchy is based on the principle of power and authority, where the ruler holds ultimate power and the people are expected to obey and follow their commands. This is in contrast to other philosophical schools, such as Confucianism, which emphasized the importance of moral leadership and the ruler's responsibility to govern with virtue and benevolence.

One of the key principles of Legalism is the belief that human nature is inherently selfish and prone to evil. This means that without strict laws and punishments, people will act in their own self-interest and disregard the needs of society. Therefore, a strong hierarchical structure is necessary to keep the people in check and prevent chaos and disorder.

In Legalism, the ruler is seen as the ultimate authority and is responsible for setting and enforcing laws that govern society. The ruler's power is absolute, and any disobedience or rebellion is met with severe punishment. This strict adherence to the law is believed to maintain social order and prevent any challenges to the ruler's authority.

Furthermore, Legalism also promotes the idea of meritocracy, where individuals are judged based on their abilities and contributions to society rather than their social status or background. This means that in a Legalist society, individuals can rise through the social hierarchy through hard work and dedication, regardless of their birth or family background.

However, this emphasis on hierarchy and strict laws also means that there is a lack of emphasis on morality and ethics in Legalism. The focus is on maintaining order and obedience rather than promoting moral values and virtues. This has led to criticism of Legalism as a harsh and authoritarian ideology that prioritizes control over the well-being of the people.

In conclusion, Legalism views the concept of social hierarchy as a necessary tool for maintaining order and control in society. The ruler holds ultimate power, and the people are expected to obey and follow the strict laws set by the ruler. While this hierarchical structure may ensure stability, it also neglects the importance of morality and ethics in governing a society.