Ancient Chinese Religions & Philosophies

Teachings of Confucius Confucius-most influential philosopher Born-551 BC Restore peace & order Taught a small number of followers Analects- collection of teachings Lived when Zhou dynasty was in warring period

The Five Relationships Relationship between: Ruler & Ruled Father & Son Older Brother & Younger Brother Husband & Wife Friend & Friend One has authority over another (except #5) Superior sets example -Five relationships must govern society -Superior is responsible for well-being of inferior -supports mandate of heaven

Five Relationships Examples Good Government Ruler Ruled Loyalty and Obedience Protect and set example Father Son Honor and Obey

Confucian Guide of Conduct Filial Piety-duty & respect children owe their parents Family & society above the individual Emphasis on edu. -stressed loyalty, courtesy, hard work, and service -Men are pretty much the same, its education that sets them apart

Daoism Founded by Lao Zi Link b/t people & nature Dao De Ching (The Way of Virtue)-collection of Lao’s thoughts Lived during 6th century Daoism-ppl and nature vs Conf.-proper behavior

The Natural Way Live the natural way Led to scientific advances Rules were useless Best govt. = fewest rules Led to scientific advances Astronomy Magnetic Compass Gun powder Society with rules was an artificial creation that disturbed the natural order People shouldn’t do things that were against the natural order Want order and harmony? Go into hills and observe nature. Nothing strives for fame, power or wisdom. Clouds, wind, streams move without effort because they follow the “way.” Studied planets to learn astronomy May have developed compass to determine best places for graves May have invented gun powder to scare ghosts