Chinese Belief Systems
CONFUCIANISM Confucianism is a Chinese ethical and philosophical system developed from the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius
Confucius 551-479 BCE Born in Feudal state of Liu Became a teacher and editor of books
It is transformative – seeks to make you a different, better person Confucianism: Mental transformation into a morally perfect person 2/15/2019
Major Confucian Principles Li- Rite, rules, ritual decorum Ren-Humaneness Shu-Reciprocity, empathy (Do not do unto others what you would not want others to do unto you. Yi-Righteousness Xiao-Filial Piety (Respect your elders)
Aim: To transform all people into ethical beings To attain the good things in life To create a just society 2/15/2019
Methods of Confucianism Study the classics and other scriptures Put the needs of others before your own Associate only with good people Study the world around you Revere your ancestors Respect the relations between peoples Ruler Subject Father Son Husband Wife Older brother Younger Brother Older Friend Younger Friend
Confucian establishment: Imperial cult 2/15/2019
Confucian establishment: City gods 2/15/2019
Confucian establishment Confucian Temples and ceremonies 2/15/2019
LEGALISM
Legalism Han Fe Zi 280-233 B.C.E. Lived during the late warring states period Legalism became the political philosophy of the Qin (Ch’in) Dynasty