The Zhou dynasty adheres to a code of conduct called li, a collection of complex rules of social etiquette and personal deportment; a related chivalric code applies to royal relations, to nobles and conduct in battle.

Those who practice li are civilized; those who do not, such as those outside the Zhou domains, are barbarians.

Under King Wu, the Zhou Dynasty initiates construction of a series of northern frontier walls to keep the barbarians from the kingdom.