Chinese social structure

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Traditional Chinese social structure was based on the teachings of Confucius. In the ideal Confucianism social structure, emperors, government officials, and scholars were at the highest level of society, followed by farmers and peasants, then by artisans, with merchants, slaves, and soldiers in last place. The Confucians deeply admired government officials and scholars and usually disdained merchants. Commercial success never won respect, and wealth based on commerce was subject to official taxes, fees, and even confiscation. Upward mobility by merchants was achieved by cultivating good relations with powerful officials and educating their sons in the hope they might become officials. Policemen usually ranked along with government agents and were highly regarded whereas soldiers were very low on the hierarchy.

Social Structure in Traditional (Han Dynasty) China--202 to 220 BCE

Emperor
Kings and Governors who governed local provinces (appointed by the emperor)
State Officials, Nobles and Scholars
Peasants
Artisans and Merchants
Soldiers
Slaves

Although commerce was considered to be unimportant, it was actually an integral part of Chinese society. The Silk Roads passed trade goods from China to Rome through a series of middlemen. The price of goods was raised each time it was passed. By the time silk got to Rome, it was worth its weight in gold.