merit-based-title-evaluation

name	merit-based-title-evaluation
description	Use when evaluating officials for noble titles or ranking meritorious service. Applies the five-tier classification (勋劳功伐阅) to determine title rank, land grants, and hereditary privileges based on contribution type.

Overview

A five-tier classification system for evaluating meritorious service and determining appropriate noble titles.

Steps

1. Classify the type of contribution:

   • 勋 - Establishing ancestral temples and securing the state through virtue
   • 劳 - Providing critical counsel and strategic advice
   • 功 - Military or physical service achieving concrete results
   • 伐 - Clarifying and maintaining proper rank distinctions
   • 阅 - Accumulated service over time

2. Evaluate the magnitude:

   • Did the service save the dynasty?
   • Was it during crisis or peacetime?
   • How many generations benefit from this service?

3. Determine appropriate reward:

   • Title rank (侯, 伯, etc.)
   • Land grant size
   • Hereditary privileges

4. Record the oath:

   • Document the basis for the title
   • Establish conditions for inheritance
   • Note any limitations or expectations

Decision Points

• If service established the dynasty itself: highest rank (勋)
• If service was advisory but crucial: second tier (劳)
• If service was military action: third tier (功)
• If service was administrative: fourth tier (伐)
• If service was simply longevity: fifth tier (阅)

Expected Outcomes

• Fair and transparent title assignments
• Clear documentation of why titles were granted