1. Classical Chinese Philosophies

2. 3 Major Classical Chinese Philosophical Movements
Confucianism
Daoism/Taoism
Legalism

3. Confucianism Confucius (551-479 BCE) K’ung Fu-Tzu
Lived during Period of Warring States
Scholar – taught history, music, ethics
Main Writings: The Analects
Promoted by his followers, such as Mencius

4. Confucianism
Wanted to restore social order, harmony and good government to China
Ethical system based on relationships and personal virtue
Spoke of the ideal age of the early Zhou Dynasty
Perfect society
Superiors looked after dependents
Inferiors devoted to service

5. Confucianism Five Basic Relationships in Society Ruler and Subject
Father and Son
Husband and Wife
Older Brother and Younger Brother
Friend and Friend

6. Confucianism
Most of Confucius’ theories on relationships were based on the FAMILY
Filial Piety – Respect for parents and elders
Necessary for order in the world

7. Confucianism
Argued that a Chinese gentleman was based on education and moral standards and NOT based on birth
Bureaucracy – Those who run the government
Courteous
Precise
Generous
Just (Fair)

8. Daoism/Taoism Founded by Lao Tze (604-531 BCE)
Book: Tao-te-Ching (The Way of Virtue)
Human actions are not important
The most important part of society is the natural order of things
The Tao (The Way) – guides all things

9. Daoism/Taoism Search for knowledge and understanding of nature
To understand nothing, it is best to do nothing, to observe nature
Nature is not jealous, power-hungry
Does not argue about right and wrong, good or bad

10. Legalism Practical, political reaction to Confucianism
Founded by Han Feizi in 3rd century BCE
Powerful and efficient government was the key to restoring order
Use law to end civil war and restore harmony
Ruler should provide rewards for good subjects and punish those who are disobedient
Must control ideas and actions of people
Becomes basis for future dynasties
Favored by Shi Huangdi in the Qin Dynasty