1. Chinese Philosophies: Confucianism and Taoism
Unit 2: Religion and Belief Systems

2. Historical Background
Warring States Period
Zhou Dynasty began declining, had to rely on ~100 allied states for military
Smaller states unable to rely on central Zhou government for protection and were conquered by stronger states
Through conquest, only 7 states remained—the Warring States
Intense violence and political unrest followed
Each state’s leader claimed the mandate of heaven (Heaven bestows power on someone to rule, can be revoked if cruel or ineffective)
Philosophers sought to restore order to society

5. Origins of Confucianism
Confucius ( B.C.E)
Chinese philosopher seeking to bring peace to chaotic time
He served as an advisor under an important ruler
Ruler became apathetic and distracted by silly pursuits
Frustrated, Confucius wandered China and spread ideas
Collected in Analects

6. Core Beliefs
Confucianism is a political and ethical philosophy, not spiritual
All people have well defined roles and responsibilities
Holds that humans are naturally good
Confucius was first to give “Golden Rule”
Do not do to others as you would not wish done to yourself
Filial piety: to respect one’s parents or ancestors; to be good to them and take care of them; to display sorrow for their death and provide sacrifices after death

7. Core Beliefs
Respect for authority is strongly emphasized; however, must be reciprocated
Five Constant Relationships:
Ruler to ruled
Father to son
Husband to wife
Elder brother to younger brother
Friend to friend

8. Taoism (Daoism)
Based on teachings of Laozi; around same time as Confucius
Frustrated with royal culture; left and wrote down his wisdom
Laozi likely did not exist
Tao Te Ching outlines foundations of Taoism

9. Core Beliefs
Taoism is centered around something called Tao (or Dao), meaning “the way”
Tao is the natural order of the universe that cannot be defined and can only be known through experiencing life
Tao can be understood through wei wu wei, or “action without action”
Often do not get involved in politics
Taoists seek stillness; slow down and allow the universe to work on its own
“The Sage is occupied with the unspoken and acts without effort. Teaching without verbosity, producing without possessing, creating without regard to result, when success is achieve he seeks no recognition, because he does not claim credit, the Sage has nothing to lose.” - Tao Te Ching, Chapter 2

10. “To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.” --Laozi
“By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.” -- Confucius
“To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.” --Laozi
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” --Laozi
“The usefulness of a pot comes from its emptiness. Empty yourself of everything, let your mind become still.” --Laozi
Ask students to work with a partner and put these into their own words as best as they can; don’t explain quotes, allow them to work it out and guess