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Defining characteristics of traditional Chinese civilization:
1. Civil service examination system: This is a key feature of traditional Chinese civilization where individuals could enter the government bureaucracy based on their merit and knowledge rather than through family connections or wealth.
2. An absolute monarchy: Traditional Chinese civilization was characterized by having an emperor as the supreme ruler, holding absolute power over the state. The emperor's authority was based on the concept of the Mandate of Heaven.
3. A centralized bureaucratic system of government: Traditional Chinese civilization featured a well-organized bureaucracy that managed the administration of the vast empire. This system of government was structured with officials at different levels responsible for governing specific regions and functions.
Excluded characteristic:
- Continued aristocratic dominance in the political system: Contrary to some other civilizations, traditional Chinese civilization did not have a sustained aristocracy holding significant political power throughout its history. The emphasis on meritocracy and the civil service examination system helped to diminish the influence of hereditary elites in governance.
In conclusion, all the provided characteristics can be considered defining features of traditional Chinese civilization except for continued aristocratic dominance in the political system.
