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

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

Origins of Confucianism Confucius (551-479 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

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

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

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

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

“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