Three Chinese Philosophies Confucianism, Daoism, & Legalism

The Zhou Dynasty Overthrew the Shang Mandate of Heaven – divine right to rule China Increased stability through feudalism - king gave lords land - lords gave king soldiers if he was attacked - lords had absolute power over peasants - peasants had lord’s protection but had to give lord portion of their crops

Confucius

Confucius Given name = Kongfuzi (Kohng SHEE-oh) Lived from 551 BC – 479 BC Saw that society & government had to change if there was to be peace & order Society worked well when people acted properly based upon roles & relationships

Social Relationships 5 fundamental social relationships - ruler & subject - husband & wife - father & son - older sibling & younger sibling - friend & friend All people must respect & obey those above them – those with authority must set a good example “Do not do unto others what you would not want done to you.”

Influence of Confuciansim Confucius thought that civil servants (those who work for gov.) should have the ability & wisdom to do their jobs well Eventually civil servants would be hired on ability by taking exams

Other Influences on Society Respect for elders Proper behavior Love of scholarship

Laozi

The Founder of Daoism Wise man of Daosim was Laozi Said to be the author of Dao De Jin (The Classic of the Way and Its Power)

Teachings of Daoism Dao was force that gave order to universe Daoism taught that people gained happiness & peace by living in harmony with nature People followed way of nature by living simple lives of quiet meditation  do not strive to be self-important, accept what comes Too many laws & social rules got in the way of living naturally & following Dao

Yin Yang Yin = shadowed Yang = sunlit Symbol for balancing opposing forces of nature

Influence Of Daoism Encouraged rulers to rule less harshly Influenced Chinese thought, writing, & art

Legalism Based on teachings of Hanfeizi  like Confucius concerned with creating peace & stability in China Legalists believed that people were naturally selfish Not enough for rulers to set good examples

Legalism – contin. Establish strict laws - enforce them with rewards for good behavior & harsh punishments for bad behavior Rulers should have absolute power backed by military “He who trusts will be controlled by others.”

Influence of Legalism Hanfeizi’s writings had an immediate influence on the next line of Chinese rulers, the Qin dynasty They wanted a strong central gov. & well organized society  to achieve these goals they adopted Legalist ideas