Shi huang, the emperor of the qin dynasty, has been credited with unifying northern china. he did so by developing the school of legalism, which can be described as a philosophy that taught that a. a powerful and efficient government was the only way to maintain order over an empire. b. rulers should be virtuous and lead by example in order to maintain order and prosper as an empire. c. trade with other empires was the only way china would expand and spread its ideas and beliefs. d. obedience and devotion to one's parents and family will lead to a strong and successful empire.