Confucianism And Daoism Both developed during a time of conflict in China Warring states They sought to bring harmony to Chinese society

Confucianism Founded by Confucius Born in 551 B.C.E. during the Zhou dynasty His teachings were recorded in the Analects Not a belief system, but rather a way of life

Confucianism Key Aspects: Stressed social harmony and traditions “Good government consists in the ruler being a ruler, the minister being a minister, the father being a father, and the son being a son” Respect for elders and reverence for ancestors

Confucianism Key Aspects: Ren - Kindness and benevolence Needed in government officials Li - treat others kindly Xiao - Filial Piety Family members give deference to the male head of family

The Family In Confucianism In China, family members shared the same house Father was the head of the household (Patriarchy) Women did not have many rights Subservient to males Rarely received an education

Daoism 500s B.C.E., also during the Zhou dynasty Founded by Laozi Focused on connecting with nature and individualism Dao - the way

Daoism Key aspects: Less of a focus on government and worldly affairs, more on nature Living a simple life Yin and Yang: Yin = Humanity’s feminine side lives in harmony with the Yang = humanity’s aggressive side Two sides should be in balance Like Confucianism, the family was important Eventually magic and fortune telling were incorporated into Daosim

Legalism Focus on following rules and laws Strict laws were used to control people Pessimistic view of humanity Farmers and soldiers were professions that legalism preferred - essential to survival One should turn in family members and neighbors who broke the law Popular during the Qin Dynasty (221- 206 B.C.E.) More in next video

Legalism Harsh punishments for breaking laws Amputation of hands and feet Although Legalist beliefs were not supported for long, it was during this period that China was unified More in next video

Quick Recap Confucianism: Social Harmony Filial Piety Daoism: Focus on nature Legalism: Strict, pessimistic view of humanity