Question

The traditional method for selecting officials was:

• A. approximately by the civil government.
• B. the examination system.
• C. through a subjective testing system.
• D. sponsorship by a high government official.

Hint:

When a passage discusses "traditional" methods in a historical context, it usually refers to the long-established primary system, not supplementary or newer practices.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The passage clearly states that the examination system was the traditional avenue for selecting officials in China.
This system was based on merit, where candidates demonstrated their knowledge, morality, and administrative capabilities through rigorous exams.
During the chaos preceding the Restoration, this system declined in effectiveness due to irregular promotions and corruption.
The Restoration leaders sought to revive this method as the primary way to ensure the quality of officials.
Option (a) is incorrect — while the civil government oversaw administration, the method of selection was specifically the examination system, not arbitrary appointment.
Option (c) is incorrect — the system was not subjective; it was structured, formal, and merit-based, even though it had limitations.
Option (d) is partially true for the supplementary recommendation system introduced later, but this was not the traditional method — it was an addition to the examinations.
Therefore, the correct answer is (b).