Confucianism / Daoism

Roots of Philosophy: The Decline of the Zhou Zhou had been divided into many small kingdoms. Civil War breaks out in 403 B.C. “Period of the Warring States” During this time, Chinese philosophers wanted to create stability in society. Create ideas about human relationships. Become ideas behind Confucianism & Taoism

The Life of Confucius Born in 551 B.C. Tried to convince warlords to lead their people by example. They ignore him. Returns to home-town to become teacher Teaches future leaders his ideas on ethics. They go on to change Chinese society. Followers write the Analects

The Life of Confucius Confucius believed there is an order in the universe. Humans must act in harmony with this order. Two basic ideas: Duty If everyone does their duty to the fullest, then society will prosper. Humanity Compassion and empathy for others.

Confucius’ Teachings :Two Basic Ideas… Duty Five Constant Relationships Parent – Child Parents love children Children revere parents Husband – Wife Husbands fulfill duty to wife Wife are obedient 3. Older Sibling – Younger Sibling Elder sibling should be a kind teacher Younger sibling should be respectful 4. Older Friend – Younger Friend Older friend should be considerate Younger friend should be deferential 5. Ruler – Subject Rulers should be benevolent Subjects should be loyal “Let the ruler be filial and kind to all people, then they will be faithful to him. Let him advance the good and teach the incompetent; then they will eagerly seek to be virtuous.” -Confucius

Confucius’ Teachings :Two Basic Ideas… “Do not do unto others what you would not wish to be done to yourself.” -Confucius Humanity Wisdom

Sayings From the Analects Knowing what he knows and knowing what he does not know is a characteristic of a person who knows. Making a mistake and not correcting it is making another mistake. The superior man blames himself. The inferior man blames others. To go too far is as wrong as to fall short.

Confucianism Wrap Up Questions: Comparing Eastern Philosophies How would Confucius react to the Hindu Caste system? Both philosophies share the idea of “duty.”

Taoism/Daoism Tao = “the path” or “the way” Philosophy of Laozi Lived during the time of Confucius (c. 500 B.C.) Also looked to end the Warring States!

Taoism – Basic Beliefs The Tao is a “power” which envelops, surrounds and flows through all things, living and non-living. Creates balance in the Universe. It embodies the harmony of opposites. There would be no love without hate, no light without dark, no male without female. Referred to as yin and yang. Let nature take its course by not interfering with it Harmonize yourself with the Tao.

In summary… Confucianism believes that it is the duty of human beings to work hard to improve the life here on Earth. “If there is righteousness in the heart, there will be beauty in the character. If there is beauty in the character, there will be harmony in the home. If there be harmony in the home, there will be order in the nation. If there be order in the nation, there will be peace in the world.” Taoists believe the way to act in harmony is to not interfere with the natural order. “The universe is sacred. You cannot improve it. If you try to change it, you will ruin it. If you try to hold it, you will lose it.” - Laozi