Historian A: Li Wei – Economic Perspective "Li Wei argues that ancestors played a crucial role in supporting the economy of Shang China. He suggests that ancestor worship reinforced social hierarchy and legitimated rulers’ power, which was essential for stability and economic prosperity. Li Wei emphasizes archaeological findings of ritual bronzes and ancestor offerings as evidence of their economic influence, showing that ancestor worship was intertwined with state control and resource distribution. He believes that without a strong emphasis on ancestors, the Shang economy would have struggled to sustain large-scale projects and societal organization."

Historian B: Chen Ming – Social Perspective "Chen Ming contends that ancestors were primarily central to social and familial bonds in Shang society. He highlights that ancestor worship reinforced social cohesion and moral obligations within families. Chen points to the numerous rituals and ceremonies that involved all levels of society, emphasizing that the focus on ancestors maintained social stability and cultural identity. He argues that while rulers used ancestor worship for political purposes, its core function was to strengthen community ties and moral values, which were vital for everyday life and social order."