The notion that people are primarily evil and require moral education and authoritarian control is characteristic of which branch of Chinese thought?

Legalism

Explanation:

Legalism was one of the four philosophic schools in ancient china. The legalists believed that ruler should govern his subjects with three ideas: Fa (law), Shu (Control) and Shi (Power). This philosophy was followed by Qin dynasty.

Legalism was a philosophical belief that humans are motivated by self interest and inclined to do wrong than right. It was propounded by Philosopher Han Feizi, it developed during a time of constant warfare.

The legalists prescribed rewards and punishments for specific behaviours. According to them the interest of ruling class was more important than the common people, and the central government must have absolute control and power over the people.