What factors influenced the formation of laws in Xia and Shang Dynasties?

The formation of law in Xia and Shang Dynasties was influenced by theocracy. In the slave society of China, the slave owner class not only controlled the material means of production, but also dominated the social spiritual culture. They not only rely on material means to rule and oppress slaves, but also use spiritual means to deceive and enslave slaves in order to maintain their rule.

Their fabricated theocracy thoughts such as "Destiny" and "Heavenly Punishment" are trying to deify and legalize their ruling power, and describe the law that reflects their will as the embodiment of God's will. According to legend, slave owners in Xia Dynasty began to cheat slaves by using the theocratic ideas of "destiny" and "punishment", which put on a legal coat for Wang Xia's rule.

Extended data:

China law originated from the war between clans, while western law originated from the compromise of various forces within clans. The content of western law is far wider than that of China. China's punishment begins with soldiers, while western countries involve criminal, civil, economic and administrative laws.

Xia Shang Dynasty's "punishment instead of heaven" obeyed the king's orders, which was equal to obeying the destiny. Taking advantage of people's superstitious psychology of totem worship, ancestor worship and God worship for a long time, the king "teaches Shinto", describes the king as the embodiment of God, and puts on the cloak of theocracy for the kingship.

Baidu Encyclopedia-Legal System of Xia Dynasty