Chinese Philosophies & Doctrines: 100 Schools of Thought Confucianism, Daoism & Legalism

Confucianism Originated in China in 6th century BC Founder Kongfuzi...Confucius Major Writings: Analects: Collection of Confucius’ teachings after his death…these ethics provided the basis for the civil service system in China 5 Classics – thought to carry solutions to most problems

Main Beliefs Focus on Harmony in Society through the 5 Basic Relationships Parent/Child Elder/Younger Husband/Wife Ruler/Subjects Friend/Friend

5 Basic Relationships All relationships (except the last), involve the authority of one person over another Power and the right to rule belong to superiors over subordinates Each person has to give obedience and respect to "superiors“ The "superior," however, owes loving responsibility to the inferior and must set a good example

5 Basic Relationships PARENT (father) Is kind Gives protection Provides Education CHILD (son) Shows respect (filial piety) Accepts father’s guidance Cares for him in old age and performs the customary burial ceremonies

5 Basic Relationships ELDER (teacher, older brother) Sets an example of refinement and good behavior Shows consideration toward younger people YOUNGER (student, younger brother) Respects the character and experience of the elder Defers to the advice of those with more experience Is eager to learn

5 Basic Relationships HUSBAND Carries out his family duties Is honorable and faithful Provides for his wife and family WIFE Looks after the home Is obedient Diligently meets the needs of her husband and children

5 Basic Relationships RULER Acts justly Strives to improve the welfare of his people Is worthy of loyalty SUBJECTS Are loyal Serve their ruler Honor their ruler because of his position and character

5 Basic Relationships FRIEND Is equal to his friend and must have respect for him FRIEND Is equal to his friend and must have respect for him

Daoism (Taoism) Originated in 6th century BC, during the Zhou Dynasty Founder: Laozi (a scholar) Major Writing: Dao De Jing… a Chinese classic

Major Beliefs People should renounce worldly ambitions and turn to nature and the Dao (Tao), the universal force that guides all things (the Way) Emphasize harmony with nature Wu Wei – principle of inaction: do nothing unnatural Focus on inner peace…don’t compete; don’t seek learning, riches or power; withdraw from public affairs

Legalism – Major Beliefs Developed from the teachings of Hanfeizi Emphasized strict laws and harsh punishments Believed humans were evil by nature and required a strong forceful gov’t to make them obey

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “Heaven is long lasting and earth is enduring. The reason why heaven and earth can live long and endure is that they do not live only for themselves.” Daoist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “To govern is to set things right. If you begin by setting yourself right, who will dare to deviate from the right?” Confucianist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? "The only way for a ruler to rule is with an iron fist and pen to write strict laws." Legalist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “Indeed, customs differ between the past and the present. To try to govern the people of a chaotic age with benevolence and lenient measures is like trying to drive wild horses without reins and whips.” Legalist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “When the people are subjected to overmuch government, the land is thrown into confusion.” Daoist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “China without a recognizable leader is preferable to foreigners with all their leaders.” Confucianist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “The highest good is like water. Water benefits all things generously and is without strife.” Daoist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “Leave all things to take their natural course and do not interfere…what is contrary to the Way soon perishes.” Daoist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? "People respond to punishment and rewards, not other people's behavior." Legalist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “Sometimes I have gone a whole day without food and a whole night without sleep, giving myself to thought. It was no use. It is better to learn.” Confucianist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “When it comes to uncles, brothers, and chief vassals, he should punish them when their advice leads to failure, and promote them when their advice leads to success. He should not promote them erratically.” Legalist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “Let the sole worry of your parents be that you might become ill.” Confucianist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “Do not worry about NOT holding high positions; worry rather about playing your proper role.” Confucianist

Who Said It? Confucianist or Daoist or Legalist? “If the Way prevails on earth, horses will be used for purposes of agriculture. If the Way does not prevail, war-horses will be bred.” Daoist