儒家
Confucianism
ORIGINS
Confucius lived during a time of great turmoil in China. He established a philosophy based on
what be believed was the a basic order of the universe. He stressed following traditional ways,
which had worked well in the past to achieve peace and harmony. Confucius taught that each
person should fulfill their social obligations.
TEACHINGS
Confucius placed great importance on traditional values such as obedience and order. He also stressed the importance of
family, where children should show devotion, known as filial piety, to their parents. For Confucius, the family served as a
model for society, emphasizing duties, good deeds, and a civilized way of life.
Major Beliefs
NATURAL ORDER: There is a natural order to the universe and to human relationships.
Each person has a role in society, which reflects his or her position in the universe.
ROLE OF EACH PERSON: Each person’s social role brings a number of obligations. If everyone fulfills these roles by meeting their obligations. If everyone fulfills these roles by meeting their obligations, people and society will be in harmony.
RELATIONSHIPS: In each relationship, there is a superior and an inferior. The superior must
show love and responsibility, while the inferior must show loyalty and obedience.
MANDATE OF HEAVEN: If the ruler benefits his people and provides them with food and
protection, then the people will obey their ruler, who will continue to hold the Mandate of
Heaven (the right to rule).
"Life and works of Confucius, by Prospero Intorcetta, 1687
Daoism
Daoism (or Taoism) is a Chinese philosophy that began in the 5th century B.C., based on the teachings of
Lao Tzu. Daoists believe that nature has a “way” (the Dao) in which it moves, and that people should accept the “way” of nature rather than to try to resist it. Daoists have a deep respect for nature and harmony, and accept things rather than trying to change them. If you fight against nature, Daoists believe your
action may even have results opposite to what you intended. People can achieve enlightenment only by
“non-striving,” enjoying nature, and using contemplation to abandon earthly concerns.
The teachings of Lao Tzu describe the mysterious “way” of the universe, known as the Dao. Daoists seek
the underlying principle that explains how nature and the universe move. Just as some people see God
behind all things, Daoists describe the “way:”
You look at it, but it is not to be see,
Its name is Formless.
You listen to it, but it is not to be heard;
Its name is Soundless.
You grasp it, but it is not to be held;
Its name is Bodiless
How does this description of the
“way” compare to Western religious ideas about “God”?
Laozi, depicted as a
Taoist leader