Comparing the three major principles of Chinese moral order Eastern Philosophies Comparing the three major principles of Chinese moral order

Confucianism

Confucius 551 – 479 B.C.E. Born in the feudal state of Liu. Chaos and corruption was all over China Believed that people can be taught virtue If people are taught virtue then society will be a better place Became a teacher and editor of books. Traveled around China teaching virtue

Major Confucian Principles Li --> Appropriate behavior, order, responsibility, ritual (Binding force of an enduring stable society) Jen (wren) --> human heartedness; goodness; benevolence, Shu --> Respect, reciprocity, empathy Do not do unto others what you would not want others to do unto you. Yi --> Righteousness, be the superior man Xiao --> Filial Piety, reverence (Respect your elders!)

Confucian 5 Relationships Ruler and Subject Father and Son Husband and Wife Older Brother and Younger Brother Friend and Friend Each relationship is based on respect, responsibility and kindness

Confucian Sayings The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions. Virtue is not left alone. He who practices it will have neighbors. Our greatest glory is not never falling, but rising every time we fall.

Legalism

Han Fei 280? - 233 B.C.E. Han Fe Zi. Lived during the late Warring States period. Allowed Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi to unify China Legalism became the political philosophy of the Qin [Ch’in] Dynasty.

Major Legalist Principles 1. Human nature is naturally selfish. 2. Intellectualism and literacy is discouraged. 3. Law is the supreme authority and replaces morality. 4. The ruler must rule with a strong, punishing hand. 5. War is the means of strengthening a ruler’s power.

Daoism

Lao Zi [Lao-Tzu] His name means “Old Master” Not sure when he died. [604 B.C.E. - ?] His name means “Old Master” Wrote the Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching) Book of poems that explains the Dao and Daoist philosophy Did not found religion, but did organize it and made it popular

Major Daoist Principles 1. Dao [Tao] is the first-cause of the universe. It is a force that flows through all life. 2. A believer’s goal is to become one with Dao; one with nature. Find balance and harmony between one’s self, nature and the universe 3. Wu wei --> “Let nature take its course.” --> “The art of doing nothing.” --> “Go with the flow!” 4. Man is unhappy because he lives according to man-made laws, customs, & traditions that are contrary to the ways of nature.

The Uniqueness of Eastern Philosophy How is a man to live in a world dominated by chaos, suffering, and absurdity? Confucianism --> Moral order in society. Know your role and act with virtue Man can be taught virtue Legalism -----> Rule by harsh law & order. Daoism ------> Freedom for individuals and less govt. To avoid uniformity and conformity. Balance and Harmony with everything.

What's Your Philosophy of Life?

How would a (Confucianist, Daoist, Legalist) handle the situation Use one of the Eastern Philosophies to analyze and react to each of the following situation

Your Friend did not do their homework and wants to copy your work before class starts Use one of the Eastern Philosophies to analyze and react to the following situation

You and your friends get stopped by the police for skateboarding on front street Use one of the Eastern Philosophies to analyze and react to the following situation

At the football game some Baldwin students start harassing you and your friends, talking smack about you and your school Use one of the Eastern Philosophies to analyze and react to the following situation

While Surfing someone cuts you off and steals your Wave Use one of the Eastern Philosophies to analyze and react to the following situation

At the store with some of your friends and they decide to steal some candy Use one of the Eastern Philosophies to analyze and react to the following situation