1. Bell Ringer 10/21 What do you know about Chinese religion? What is the difference between a religion and a social philosophy?

2. Tao Te Ching and The Analects By: Lao Tzu and Confucius

3. Lao Tzu Chinese Author of Tao Te Ching Believed in “The Way” – force that controls the universe Tao – natural order with which people should not interfere Aphorism – short, wise saying expressing a general truth or principle

4. Tao Te Ching Section One –“The Way” does not have an individual name –People use different names for the force –Moral: Stop trying to understand nature’s mysteries and simply enjoy/appreciate it. Section Three –People are too prideful and greedy –Take care of peoples’ physical being before their education –Inaction equals harmony (can’t mess it up if you aren’t messing with it)

5. Tao Te Ching continued Section Nine –Too many responsibilities cripples you –Wealth specifically is useless –Know when to quit seeking both Section Forty-Three –Flexibility is better than rigidity –Submission often has greater impact than power

6. Confucius Chinese Never wrote a single word – wisdom was recorded by disciples Emphasized moral conduct Confucianism became the official state doctrine and study of it was required by all state officials in the 2 nd century Believed in “The Way” as a moral force with which people should align behavior

7. The Analects Does not take same approach as Taoism (submission/lack of action), but enforces moral behavior, duty, and education. Focuses on “Ren” – benevolence toward others Though the primary text of Confucianism, it is not considered a religion, but rather a social philosophy. Written during a time of great upheaval in society and politics

8. The Analects continued Put knowledge to use. Do not act to seek recognition. Duty: treat parents and elders well, don’t make promises you can’t keep, and keep the ones you make immediately. Be nice to all people, but seek to spend time with good people. Study art, writing, dance, singing, and poetry.

9. Lessons continued…. Be anxious to recognize the good in others. People who are ruled by “The Way” will be respected because of their goodness. Let there be no evil in your thoughts. Use tradition, modeling, and routine to govern fairly rather than chastisement. Behave in such a way your parents don’t have to worry about anything other than your health.

10. Still going….. Study questions without bias; be open-minded. Knowing what you don’t know is knowledge. Don’t be fake in worship. Don’t speak faster than you can keep up with your words (don’t spread lies/rumors). Be slow to speak, quick to act. Study to improve yourself, not to impress others. Demand more from yourself than others.