The Seventeen-Article Constitution of [[Shotoku Taishi|Shôtoku Taishi]], dated [[604]]/4/3 in the introduction to the document, lists out a series of basic principles of government. Drawing upon [[Confucianism|Confucian]] ideas of government, it mostly focuses on eliciting officials and peasantry to behave appropriately, to cooperate, and to work together in harmony, rather than on an approach to government centered on compelling obedience through a detailed law code, and strict punishments. The so-called Constitution also shows evidence of [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] influence. | The Seventeen-Article Constitution of [[Shotoku Taishi|Shôtoku Taishi]], dated [[604]]/4/3 in the introduction to the document, lists out a series of basic principles of government. Drawing upon [[Confucianism|Confucian]] ideas of government, it mostly focuses on eliciting officials and peasantry to behave appropriately, to cooperate, and to work together in harmony, rather than on an approach to government centered on compelling obedience through a detailed law code, and strict punishments. The so-called Constitution also shows evidence of [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] influence. |