The passage covers the origins, nature, and differences of Chinese conservatism in comparison to Western conservatism, particularly during the Tung-chin Restoration.
While it discusses the examination system and the rise of officials, these are presented as part of a broader theme rather than the central subject.
Option (a) The Chinese examination system — relevant but too narrow, as the passage covers much more than just this method of selection.
Option (c) How the officials rose — again, too narrow, as it misses the ideological and historical context of conservatism.
Option (d) Impact of the Taiping Rebellion — mentioned only briefly as a historical starting point, but not the main focus.
Option (b) Chinese Conservatism — accurately captures the central focus: the meaning, goals, and adaptations of conservatism in China during this era.