Chopsticks (筷子【kuàizi】) originated in China during the Shang (商) Dynasty (1766-1122 BC) as a substitute for knives on the table. According to Confucius (孔子【kǒngzi】), knives were equated with acts of aggression and should not be used to dine. Chopsticks then became the eating utensil of choice as neighboring Asian countries adopted its use and modified it according to cultural preferences.
