Final answer:
The Ming Dynasty tribute system was hierarchical and involved incorporating new areas through voluntary submission. It provided benefits to China by establishing its authority, ensuring trade opportunities, and granting political gains.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Ming Dynasty tribute system was a hierarchical system in which China dictated the terms, but also had reciprocal obligations. The system involved incorporating new areas into the Chinese tribute system through voluntary submission. It did not involve military conquest, as the imperial center made no attempts to interfere with the independence of states that participated in the system. The tribute system was not limited to neighboring regions and included Asian countries, as well as a few European countries. It provided benefits to China by establishing its authority, ensuring trade opportunities, and granting political gains.