“The adoption of isolationist policies had a negative impact on China.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the adoption of isolationist policies had a negative impact on China. The consequences of isolationism may extend beyond the timeframe, but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may discuss the fact that Chinese military developments remained very limited and this would make them vulnerable to attacks in the future. China also made little advancement in areas of trade, industry and technology and their society remained feudal and agricultural. Traders, merchants and bankers were all seen as parasites. More positive effects of isolationism include Chinese culture and ideas being protected from outside influence, and China also experienced a long period of relative peace. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.