essay on confucianism

Friday Essay: an introduction to Confucius, his ideas and their lasting relevance

Senior Lecturer in Chinese Studies, The University of Western Australia

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Yu Tao does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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The man widely known in the English language as Confucius was born around 551 BCE in today’s southern Shandong Province. Confucius is the phonic translation of the Chinese word Kong fuzi 孔夫子, in which Kong 孔 was his surname and fuzi is an honorific for learned men.

Widely credited for creating the system of thought we now call Confucianism, this learned man insisted he was “not a maker but a transmitter”, merely “believing in and loving the ancients”. In this, Confucius could be seen as acting modestly and humbly, virtues he thought of highly.

Or, as Kang Youwei — a leading reformer in modern China has argued — Confucius tactically framed his revolutionary ideas as lost ancient virtues so his arguments would be met with fewer criticisms and less hostility.

Confucius looked nothing like the great sage in his own time as he is widely known in ours. To his contemporaries, he was perhaps foremost an unemployed political adviser who wandered around different fiefdoms for some years, attempting to sell his political ideas to different rulers — but never able to strike a deal.

It seems Confucius would have preferred to live half a millennium earlier, when China — according to him — was united under benevolent, competent and virtuous rulers at the dawn of the Zhou dynasty. By his own time, China had become a divided land with hundreds of small fiefdoms, often ruled by greedy, cruel or mediocre lords frequently at war.

But this frustrated scholar’s ideas have profoundly shaped politics and ethics in and beyond China ever since his death in 479 BCE. The greatest and the most influential Chinese thinker, his concept of filial piety, remains highly valued among young people in China , despite rapid changes in the country’s demography.

Despite some doubts as to whether many Chinese people take his ideas seriously, the ideas of Confucius remain directly and closely relevant to contemporary China.

This situation perhaps is comparable to Christianity in Australia. Although institutional participation is in constant decline, Christian values and narratives remain influential on Australian politics and vital social matters .

The danger today is in Confucianism being considered the single reason behind China’s success or failure. The British author Martin Jacques, for example, recently asserted Confucianism was the “biggest single reason” for East Asia’s success in the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, without giving any explanation or justification.

If Confucius were alive, he would probably not hesitate to call out this solitary root of triumph or disaster as being lazy, incorrect and unwise.

Political structure and mutual responsibilities

Confucius wanted to restore good political order by persuading rulers to reestablish moral standards, exemplify appropriate social relations, perform time-honoured rituals and provide social welfare.

He worked hard to promote his ideas but won few supporters. Almost every ruler saw punishment and military force as shortcuts to greater power.

It was not until 350 years later during the reign of the Emperor Wu of Han that Confucianism was installed as China’s state ideology.

But this state-sanctioned version of Confucianism was not an honest revitalisation of Confucius’ ideas. Instead, it absorbed many elements from rival schools of thought, notably legalism , which emerged in the latter half of China’s Warring States period (453–221 BCE). Legalism argued efficient governance relies on impersonal laws and regulations — rather than moral principles and rites.

Like most great thinkers of the Axial Age between the 8th and 3rd century BCE, Confucius did not believe everyone was created equal.

Similar to Plato (born over 100 years later), Confucius believed the ideal society followed a hierarchy. When asked by Duke Jing of Qi about government, Confucius famously replied:

let the ruler be a ruler; the minister, a minister; the father, a father; the son, a son.

However it would be a superficial reading of Confucius to believe he called for unconditional obedience to rulers or superiors. Confucius advised a disciple “not to deceive the ruler but to stand up to them”.

Confucius believed the legitimacy of a regime fundamentally relies on the confidence of the people. A ruler should tirelessly work hard and “lead by example”.

Like in a family, a good son listens to his father, and a good father wins respect not by imposing force or seniority but by offering heartfelt love, support, guidance and care.

In other words, Confucius saw a mutual relationship between the ruler and the ruled.

Love and respect for social harmony

To Confucius, the appropriate relations between family members are not merely metaphors for ideal political orders, but the basic fabrics of a harmonious society.

An essential family value in Confucius’ ideas is xiao 孝, or filial piety, a concept explained in at least 15 different ways in the Analects, a collection of the words from Confucius and his followers.

Read more: Can Ne Zha, the Chinese superhero with $1b at the box office, teach us how to raise good kids?

Depending on the context, Confucius defined filial piety as respecting parents, as “never diverging” from parents, as not letting parents feel unnecessary anxiety, as serving parents with etiquette when they are alive, and as burying and commemorating parents with propriety after they pass away.

Confucius expected rulers to exemplify good family values. When Ji Kang Zi, the powerful prime minister of Confucius’ home state of Lu asked for advice on keeping people loyal to the realm, Confucius responded by asking the ruler to demonstrate filial piety and benignity ( ci 慈).

Confucius viewed moral and ethical principles not merely as personal matters, but as social assets. He profoundly believed social harmony ultimately relies on virtuous citizens rather than sophisticated institutions.

In the ideas of Confucius, the most important moral principle is ren 仁, a concept that can hardly be translated into English without losing some of its meaning.

Like filial piety, ren is manifested in the love and respect one has for others. But ren is not restricted among family members and does not rely on blood or kinship. Ren guides people to follow their conscience. People with ren have strong compassion and empathy towards others.

Translators arguing for a single English equivalent for ren have attempted to interpret the concept as “benevolence”, “humanity”, “humanness” and “goodness”, none of which quite capture the full significance of the term.

The challenge in translating ren is not a linguistic one. Although the concept appears more than 100 times in the Analects, Confucius did not give one neat definition. Instead, he explained the term in many different ways.

As summarised by China historian Daniel Gardner , Confucius defined ren as:

to love others, to subdue the self and return to ritual propriety, to be respectful, tolerant, trustworthy, diligent, and kind, to be possessed of courage, to be free from worry, or to be resolute and firm.

Instead of searching for an explicit definition of ren , it is perhaps wise to view the concept as an ideal type of the highest and ultimate virtue Confucius believed good people should pursue.

Relevance in contemporary China

Confucius’ thinking hs had a profound impact on almost every great Chinese thinker since. Based upon his ideas, Mencius (372–289 BCE) and Xunzi (c310–c235 BCE) developed different schools of thought within the system of Confucianism.

Arguing against these ideas, Mohism (4th century BCE), Daoism (4th century BCE), Legalism (3rd century BCE) and many other influential systems of thought emerged in the 400 years after Confucius’ time, going on to shape many aspects of the Chinese civilisation in the last two millennia.

Modern China has a complicated relationship with Confucius and his ideas.

Since the early 20th century, many intellectuals influenced by western thought started denouncing Confucianism as the reason for China’s national humiliations since the first Opium War (1839-42).

Confucius received fierce criticism from both liberals and Marxists .

Hu Shih , a leader of China’s New Culture Movement in the 1910s and 1920s and an alumnus of Columbia University , advocated overthrowing the “House of Confucius”.

Mao Zedong, the founder of the People’s Republic of China, also repeatedly denounced Confucius and Confucianism. Between 1973 and 1975, Mao devoted the last political campaign in his life against Confucianism.

Read more: To make sense of modern China, you simply can't ignore Marxism

Despite these fierce criticisms and harsh persecutions, Confucius’ ideas remain in the minds and hearts of many Chinese people, both in and outside China.

One prominent example is PC Chang , another Chinese alumnus of Columbia University, who was instrumental in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights , proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on December 10 1948. Thanks to Chang’s efforts , the spirit of some most essential Confucian ideas, such as ren , was deeply embedded in the Declaration.

Today, many Chinese parents, as well as the Chinese state, are keen children be provided a more Confucian education .

In 2004, the Chinese government named its initiative of promoting language and culture overseas after Confucius, and its leadership has been enthusiastically embracing Confucius’ lessons to consolidate their legitimacy and ruling in the 21st century.

Read more: Explainer: what are Confucius Institutes and do they teach Chinese propaganda?

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ENCYCLOPEDIC ENTRY

Confucianism.

Confucianism is one of the most influential religious philosophies in the history of China, and it has existed for over 2,500 years. It is concerned with inner virtue, morality, and respect for the community and its values.

Religion, Social Studies, Ancient Civilizations

Confucian Philosopher Mencius

Confucianism is an ancient Chinese belief system, which focuses on the importance of personal ethics and morality. Whether it is only or a philosophy or also a religion is debated.

Photograph by Historica Graphica Collection/Heritage Images/Getty Images, taken from Myths and Legends of China

Confucianism is a philosophy and belief system from ancient China, which laid the foundation for much of Chinese culture. Confucius was a philosopher and teacher who lived from 551 to 479 B.C.E. His thoughts on ethics , good behavior, and moral character were written down by his disciples in several books, the most important being the Lunyu . Confucianism believes in ancestor worship and human-centered virtues for living a peaceful life. The golden rule of Confucianism is “Do not do unto others what you would not want others to do unto you.” There is debate over if Confucianism is a religion. Confucianism is best understood as an ethical guide to life and living with strong character. Yet, Confucianism also began as a revival of an earlier religious tradition. There are no Confucian gods, and Confucius himself is worshipped as a spirit rather than a god. However, there are temples of Confucianism , which are places where important community and civic rituals happen. This debate remains unresolved and many people refer to Confucianism as both a religion and a philosophy. The main idea of Confucianism is the importance of having a good moral character, which can then affect the world around that person through the idea of “cosmic harmony.” If the emperor has moral perfection, his rule will be peaceful and benevolent. Natural disasters and conflict are the result of straying from the ancient teachings. This moral character is achieved through the virtue of ren, or “humanity,” which leads to more virtuous behaviours, such as respect, altruism , and humility. Confucius believed in the importance of education in order to create this virtuous character. He thought that people are essentially good yet may have strayed from the appropriate forms of conduct. Rituals in Confucianism were designed to bring about this respectful attitude and create a sense of community within a group. The idea of “ filial piety ,” or devotion to family, is key to Confucius thought. This devotion can take the form of ancestor worship, submission to parental authority, or the use of family metaphors, such as “son of heaven,” to describe the emperor and his government. The family was the most important group for Confucian ethics , and devotion to family could only strengthen the society surrounding it. While Confucius gave his name to Confucianism , he was not the first person to discuss many of the important concepts in Confucianism . Rather, he can be understood as someone concerned with the preservation of traditional Chinese knowledge from earlier thinkers. After Confucius’ death, several of his disciples compiled his wisdom and carried on his work. The most famous of these disciples were Mencius and Xunzi, both of whom developed Confucian thought further. Confucianism remains one of the most influential philosophies in China. During the Han Dynasty, emperor Wu Di (reigned 141–87 B.C.E.) made Confucianism the official state ideology. During this time, Confucius schools were established to teach Confucian ethics . Confucianism existed alongside Buddhism and Taoism for several centuries as one of the most important Chinese religions. In the Song Dynasty (960–1279 C.E.) the influence from Buddhism and Taoism brought about “Neo- Confucianism ,” which combined ideas from all three religions. However, in the Qing dynasty (1644–1912 C.E.), many scholars looked for a return to the older ideas of Confucianism , prompting a Confucian revival.

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Related Resources

Redefining Confucianism: a Fresh Historical Perspective

This is an essay about redefining Confucianism through a historical lens. It challenges traditional views by highlighting its dynamic evolution and diverse interpretations across cultures. Confucianism is portrayed not as a static doctrine but as a fluid philosophy that has influenced governance, education, and social norms in East Asia. The essay emphasizes Confucianism’s progressive and compassionate dimensions, while acknowledging its ongoing relevance and adaptability in contemporary society. Ultimately, it calls for a nuanced understanding of Confucianism’s complex history and its enduring impact on ethical reflection and social cohesion.

Additionally, PapersOwl presents more free essays samples linked to Confucianism.

How it works

Confucianism, often depicted as a rigid moral framework and social structure, warrants a novel examination through an unconventional historical lens. Rather than constraining it within static boundaries, let us explore the dynamic evolution and multifaceted expressions of Confucian philosophy over time.

Confucianism, at its essence, transcends mere philosophical doctrine, evolving across centuries and cultural landscapes. While commonly associated with ancient China, its influence extends far beyond, permeating diverse societies in East Asia and shaping various aspects of governance, education, and interpersonal relationships.

Hence, instead of confining Confucianism to a singular definition, we must acknowledge its adaptability and fluidity across different contexts.

Furthermore, the conventional portrayal of Confucianism as a conservative ideology belies its progressive and compassionate dimensions. Contrary to popular belief, Confucian ethics prioritize self-cultivation and moral improvement, emphasizing virtues such as benevolence and filial piety to foster harmony within society. Rather than endorsing blind submission to authority, Confucian principles underscore empathy and mutual respect as fundamental to a virtuous existence.

Moreover, Confucianism’s history reveals a tapestry of diverse interpretations and ideological debates, challenging simplistic dichotomies of tradition versus modernity. From the Neo-Confucian revival in the Song dynasty to the reformist movements of later periods, Confucianism has continually adapted to new intellectual currents and societal changes, defying static categorizations.

Additionally, Confucianism’s impact transcends philosophical discourse to influence various cultural practices and social institutions. Its emphasis on hierarchy and harmony has shaped political governance, legal systems, and family dynamics across East Asia. However, rather than viewing these practices as relics of a bygone era, we must recognize their ongoing evolution in response to shifting social dynamics.

Despite its enduring relevance, Confucianism faces criticism for perpetuating patriarchal norms and rigid social hierarchies. However, it is crucial to recognize the diversity within Confucian thought and its capacity for reinterpretation over time.

In conclusion, reimagining Confucianism demands a departure from conventional narratives and an engagement with its nuanced historical trajectory. By exploring Confucianism through an unconventional historical lens, we gain a deeper appreciation for its dynamism, adaptability, and enduring significance in shaping East Asian societies. Rather than relegating Confucianism to the past, we must recognize its ongoing influence and potential for fostering ethical reflection and social cohesion in the contemporary world.

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Confucianism essay sample.

610 words | 3 page(s)

Many experts note that Confucianism is seen as a system that intended to regulate philosophical and social order, being something beyond important than the religion. Primarily, it aimed to regulate the value system of an average citizen of China, set the cultural and the religious foundations and only then transcend these values into the institutions by creating an ideal state. Mostly, the doctrine that emerged during the times of the Chinese Empire has been preserved until these days. The origin of Scripture by Master K’ung comprised the certain aspects still relevant these days. For instance, the concept of righteousness originated in the doctrine and was actively popularized by the rulers of China until the 20th century. A lot of important aspects that arose from the Confucianism go beyond the pure philosophy and religion and focus on the importance of growing as a thoughtful and caring individual who will serve the society. Ultimately, when Confucianism was no longer relevant to the Communist regimes, some of the values have shifted due to the association of Confucianism to the Empire.

The overarching aim of Confucianism was the creation of the state based on the value system.

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Since Confucianism was one of the earliest traditional beliefs, it was undoubtedly a predecessor of the non-Confucianism. The early believers of Confucianism had a firm conviction in the male-dominated world, and their value system revolved around the understanding of the values, primarily cherished by men. Ethical and moral dimensions were conveyed in the idea of filial conduct. Later, when Non-Confucianism substituted the beliefs of Confucianism, it is still pertinent in the mentality of the Chinese citizens. Among the rest of religions, the preaching of Confucius remains more than relevant these days, as the historical tradition that lasted for over two thousand years, continued a significant influence on the mentality of the citizens. The key domains preserved their meaning and the concepts listed provide relevant guidelines until these days, even though the Communist regime cherished different rules of the game and did not necessarily agree with everything that was previously indoctrinated by the theology. Comparing to other religions, the concept of humanism that originated in Western Europe the decades later had its roots in East Asian religion – in Confucianism. As the focus shifted to cherishing the collective good, Confucianism did not provide the principles for the collective behavior. To some extent, the notions embedded in humanism aimed to create an ideal state, where the individualist values would be cherished and cultivated.

The academic narrative asserts that Confucianism as such did not derive from However, as the time flew, these beliefs have shifted, and non-Confucianism became the ideology preached by the Communist power. The liberalization of the social expectations and the change of political structure resulted in the creation of the different values and beliefs. One of the main effects of the non-Confucianism was the loss of the mental aspects that Chinese citizens adhered to throughout the centuries. Instead of the values of righteousness and the common good, the focus of the state and its obligations to the citizens became a social priority in China. Thereby, the amount of Confucianism became partially lost. Moreover, the religious ideology of the region stood for the promotion of atheism instead of the support of values that were respected before. Naturally, Confucianism with its spiritual focus was forced to fade away.

To sum up, Confucianism aimed to regulate the value system which would bring the new way of understanding how the state and the institutions should function and where humanism will prevail. Under the ‘ideal state,’ the strong institutions based on the moral beliefs would facilitate the regulation of the social order.

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Confucianism essay

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Literature , History , China , Confucianism , Books , Life , Students , Religion

Words: 1600

Published: 12/09/2019

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Religion forms a fundamental part of a community. One of the major religions in China is Confucianism founded by Kung Fu-tse, a Chinese sage. The name ‘Confucius’ is the Latin name for Kung Fu-tse. Confucianism not only exists in China but has also in Korea and Japan. Additionally, nearly 26,000 people in North America strongly belief in Confucianism. Research has shown that the religion has more than six million followers around the globe. Unlike other World religions, followers of Confucianism believe neither in the existence of a supreme being nor in life after death. Owing to this, many people argue that it is not a religion since the two are the main characteristics of most of the other religions. This paper seeks to give a detailed account of the religion with specific interest on its founder as well as its other significant aspects.

The founder of Confucianism

Historians believe that Confucius (Kung Fu-tse) was the founder of Confucianism. They gave them the credit because he gave Confucianism beliefs a concrete structure. Most of the Confucianism beliefs and principles existed in even before the rise of the Zhou dynasty in 1122 BC long before Confucius was born (Yung, 1961, p.82). Although he met many challenges during his lifetime, he became an icon in the religious as well as philosophical history of China.

Confucius was born around 551 BC in Luyhan village, which is part of Qufu city currently known as the Shadong province. To his parents, Confucius was an answer to prayers they had made at the sacred hill known as Ni. He came from a humble background. From his childhood, he knew that he needed to learn a lot to acquire the knowledge essential for bringing change in his community. At the age of fifteen, he started learning the Way. At the age of twenty-two Confucius began his own school. His students were a major part of his life as he would impart the knowledge that he acquired to them. According to Weiming, he taught six disciplines namely history, government, music, poetry, propriety and divination (1985, p. 40). Importantly, he did not have any form of discrimination against his students as he treated all of them equally despite of their varying social status. At the age of nineteen, he married and fathered a son. However, he divorced at the age of twenty-three. Besides teaching, Confucius pursued a political career, which he intended to use as a platform for imparting morality in the society.

Historians believe that at the age of fifty Confucius had already joined politics. He held a ministerial position in the Ministry of Public Works. He also served as a minister of Justice under the office of the Prime Minister (Yu, 2005, p. 63). However, his political ambitions were shuttered when he was forced to leave the public office at the age of fifty-five. Scholars argue that the contemporary leaders were afraid of Confucius’ integrity as well as candor to allow him to hold any position that involved exercise of power. Following his resignation, in the company of his disciples, he spent the next twelve years wandering in other parts of the world searching for a political position to no avail. During this period, he faced many hardships including being jailed at some point. Eventually, he went back home. Upon his return, he got a position as the legal advisor to the Duke of Ai. Besides being an advisor, he continued teaching his students whose numbers were growing from one year to the other.

Confucius’ major contribution to the religion

As aforementioned, Confucius played a pivotal role in the establishment as well as the continuity of Confucianism. He purposed to bring a solution to the many problems that he saw in the world that he lived. He emphasized on the political theory. This theory states that a legitimate ruler derives his/her authority from the heaven’s command and he is solely responsible for his subject’s well being. It also holds that the ruler is responsible for the peace and order in the empire. Owing to the fact that this theory was in line with the feudal ruling in Ancient China, the rulers embraced Confucianism as a major school of thought.

He was also instrumental in the propagation of the Confucianism philosophy. He pursued perfection, truth, kindness as well as an ideal society throughout his life. By so doing, he portrayed a good example to most of his followers as far as Confucianism philosophy is concerned. The philosophy seeks a peaceful or rather harmonious society, which is not dependent on financial or feudal merit (Weiming, 1985, p. 75). A society based on not only ultimate goodness but also moral equality of all humanity.

His teachings were also fundamental to the existence of the religion. Concerning human behavior, he taught his followers the five basics that he believed were the core aspects for a harmonious society. He taught them to be always considerate to other people irrespective of their social status. He also taught them to uphold respect for their ancestors and to strive for harmony besides balancing all things in life. His students were to avoid extremes in not only behavior but also in emotions. Additionally, he taught them if anyone wanted to live in peace and harmony then they had to be in contact with the spiritual forces of the universe inclusive of nature. Among his teachings were also five basic virtues, which are sobriety, trustworthiness, righteousness, wisdom and kindness. Besides his teachings, he also dedicated some of his time in editing some of the Confucian books. He edited the Book of History, Book of Songs, Book of Rites as well as the Spring and Autumn Annals. Additionally, he wrote the preface for the Book of Changes. He also reinforced the golden and silver rules, which emphasize on humaneness in the society. By the time he died, at the age of 73, he had 3,000 followers and 72 disciples.

The main features of Confucianism

The followers of Confucius do not believe in the existence of god. Owing to this fact, many people dismiss its religiosity and regard it as a way of thinking. However, Confucius perceived heaven as a kind of a god, which shows that there is more to Confucianism than just a code of behavior. Before his death, Confucius’ followers did not worship him in any way but after his death, they built temples in his owner. They also worship him in the temple.

Unlike other religions, Confucianism does not have any special days but have rituals. The sole purpose of the rituals is to honor their ancestors. The rituals can take place at any time of the year. However, the Confucius day, September 23-Confucius birthday is an important day in Confucianism. The followers of Confucianism celebrate this day to honor their leader besides offering tribute to their teachers. In Confucianism, there is no special clothing (Yu, 2005, p. 53). However, during special events they might wear robes, which resemble Buddhist robes.

There are nine important texts in Confucianism, which include four books and five classics. One of the books is the Analects of Confucius ( Lun Yu) which comprises of the sayings and teachings of Confucius. His students compiled it after his death. The others include Doctrine of the Mean (Chung Yung), The Great Learning (Ta Hsueh) and the Meng Tzu. The Meng Tzu comprises of writings of one of Confucius disciples. Among the classics is the Classic of History (Shu Ching) which comprises of speeches and writings of ancient Chinese rulers and the Classic of Odes (Shi Ching) which has three hundred songs and poems. The Classic of Changes (I Ching) contains a description of the Confucianism divinatory system including the sixty-four hexagrams. The Spring and Autumn Annals (Ch’un Ch’iu) form part of the classics and gives a history of Lu from 722-484 BC. The Classic of Rites (Li Ching) is the fifth classic, which comprises of a group of three books centering on the rites of propriety.

Confucianism was named after the name of its founder, Confucius. He was one of the Chinese sages and played a major role in structuring the religion’s belief system. He had political ambitions, which he hoped to use as the platform for bringing change regarding morality in the society. However, his political career was not successful. However, his passion for teaching played a pivotal role in bringing up a group of people who believed in his approach to life-his students. They helped him establish as well as propagate the religion in China and other countries such as Korea, Japan and the Northern part of America. For instance, in strengthening their faith, his students built temples after his death that became their place of worship.

REFERENCE LIST

Weiming, T. (1985). Confucian Thought : Selfhood as Creative Transformation. Albang: Sunn Press. Yu, A.C. (2005). State of Religion in China: Historical and Textural Perceptions. Chicago: Open Court. Yung, C.K. (1961). Religion in Chinese Society: A Study of Contemporary Social Functions of Religion and Some of their Historical Factors. Berkeley: University of California Press.

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Home — Essay Samples — Philosophy — Confucianism — Similarities Between Confucianism And Daoism

Similarities Between Confucianism and Daoism

• Categories: Confucianism

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Published: Mar 5, 2024

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121 Confucianism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best confucianism topic ideas & essay examples, 💡 most interesting confucianism topics to write about, 📌 simple & easy confucianism essay titles, 👍 good essay topics on confucianism, ❓ confucianism discussion questions.

• Reflection on Confucianism Yao reacts against the constricted view of the philosophy, which comes from failure to open into the historical development of the philosophy and the role of the Confucian tradition as a whole in advancing Confucianism.
• Philosophy: What Is Confucianism? Confucius taught that the role of the elders is to teach the youth and the role of the youth is to learn from the elders. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• Confucianism and Women During the Tang Dynasty His teachings were focused on the ability to ritualize life; one of the main focuses of those teachings was that the majority of the problems in society were the result of individuals forgetting their proper […]
• Daoism, Legalism and Confucianism’ Philosophical Theories This paper discusses how both Daoism and Legalism differ from Confucianism on the issues of family, human nature, education, role of ruler, role of government, and role of individual.
• Importance of Ritual in Confucianism and in Islam Rituals in religious contexts are considered as actions that denotes symbolic activities and practices that are carried out by people, for example, when greeting a certain set of people belonging to a certain age set, […]
• Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism Elements Hindus, the last power is discovered in the Vedas and the writing of the religious leaders willing to view the fact nature of reality.
• Distribution Features of Confucianism and Buddhism Confucianism is more a philosophical doctrine than a religion, and its connection with the East is strong due to the specifics of the Asian mentality.
• Chinese Religions: Confucianism and Daoism Reading the Book of Changes, generally known as the Yijing, which is considered to be the first manifestation of the Chinese religious worldview, is one of the rituals.
• Animism, Shinto, Dao, and Confucianism Yin and Yang represent the primordial play of opposites in life and the world known as the Dao. In one way or another, Yin and Yang are present in all religious movements in China; the […]
• Chinese Religion and Philosophy: Yin and Yang, Shintoism, Taoism, and Confucianism Taoism is based on self-discovery, change, and the absence of restrictions, and Yin and Yang are the epitomai of change and alteration.
• Philosophical Teachings of Stoicism and Confucianism Firstly, speaking about the principal contrasts between Stoicism and Confucianism, it should be mentioned that Confucius developed the teaching aimed at the improvement of the state structure, whereas the Stoics pay the main attention to […]
• Discussing Ethical Perspectives: Business and Confucianism Rowley and Oh go further in the investigation of Confucian paternalism in Chinese management and find out that business ethics could use the Confucian idea of “love”.
• Tokugawa Period: Confucianism as an Integral Part or the Culture This was not the first introduction of Confucianism to Japan – Confucian studies had of course been pursued in Japan since the sixth and seventh centuries A.D.at the latest – but never before had the […]
• Hsun Tsu “Human Nature Is Evil”: The Human Nature According to Confucianism Despite this view of the writer he receives opposition from the Mencious view of the human nature who argues that if at all a man saw a child at the verge of falling over a […]
• Confucianism and Daoism: The Vision of Life The contribution of the Zhou dynasty is invaluable and the most visible. According to Daoism people should live in harmony with nature and the whole world.
• Confucianism and Reproduction The impact of Confucianism and their concept of marriage as reproductive vehicle were overlaid with the introduction of the one-child policy which makes it difficult to assess the current impact of Confucianism on the reproduction […]
• Confucianism: Its Components and Relation to the Society The primary concern of Confucius is the misery and the distress prevailing in the society because of the immorality of its people.
• Wisdom in Judaism and Confucianism Judaism is a religion based on the relationship between God and man and to the Jewish wisdom means having insightful knowledge of the relationship between oneself and God.
• Imperial State in China and Confucianism as an Ideology Deng Xiaoping took the traditions of China and incorporated them into the economy. Most citizens of China now hire a Taoist priest to perform religious chants and ceremonies for the dead.
• World Religions: Confucianism and Buddhism Birth as the first stage of human life is supported by rituals that have to protect the woman and her child.
• Buddhism and Confucianism in Modern China In the article “Concepts and Institutions for a New Buddhist Education: Reforming the Sa gha between and within State Agencies,” Stefania Travagnin discusses the opposition between Buddhist education and Western education in China the beginning […]
• Neo-Confucianism in the Song Dynasty: Metaphysics Focus To be a human meant to occupy a proper place in the society and to be a member of the system. Neo-Confucians taught people to understand the material world around them and be an integral […]
• Confucianism and Daoism Influence on Zen Buddhism The concept of “emptiness” and “nothingness” is often mentioned and discussed in Zen philosophy. Together with the concept of ephemerality, Zen and Daoism explain that reality is conceived rather than seen.
• Confucianism and Daoism Differences and Criticism The Daoist believes about the world are well depicted in the story about the frog in the well by Zhuang Zi.
• Confucianism in China and Japan Most of the ancient Chinese sages had a metaphysical view of the world before the introduction of Confucianism. First, the Japanese people adopted the Chinese concept of Confucianism and developed it to be more social.
• Confucianism and Its Role in the Chinese Culture In this case, the Confucianism philosophy holds that the father must remain in charge of both the moral and academic education of the son.
• Confucianism and Daoism Comparison One of the chief concepts of Daoism is the need to follow a way of nature as opposed to following a social or societal order. Therefore, the frog that is in a well is in […]
• Asian Confucianism Philosophy and Literature Nonetheless, Confucianism is still present in Asian people’s minds and in their literary works as their philosophy, affected by different intrusions, is rooted in their hearts in the form of genetic memory.
• Confucianism and Legalism in the Qin Dynasty In the modern era, the ethical lessons that form the framework of Confucianism continue to influence the mindsets and conducts of billions of people in the world.
• Confucianism and Government: Chinese Political System It is important to analyze the way Confucianism appeared as the political doctrine to understand the way it affects the contemporary Chinese society.
• Confucianism as a Lifestyle: Philosophy and Principles It is the duty of elders to teach the young and it is the duty of the young to learn from elders.
• World Religions: Confucianism and Its Influence Ren is one of the key concepts of Confucianism; it is the ultimate responsibility of selflessness and humaneness for persons within society.
• Zhuang Zi’s Theory: Daoism and Confucianism However, Zhuang Zi argues that there is a point known as a privileged point of view and it is the most ideal for all observers to take.
• Analysis of Confucianism in The Analects by Yao 3 The readings helped me to obtain certain understanding of what Confucianism is and what the major principles of the tradition are.
• How Confucianism as the Asian American Heritage Has Been Maintained in Asian American Families The Confucian philosophy uses the concepts of training and control and love in the Chinese parenting practices, such that they are deeply involved in the lives of their children.
• Differences Between Confucianism and Daoism For this reason, all men in the society are required to assist the authorities in the administration of the state. To a Confucian, the state is the guardian of every individual, and should be protected.
• Confucianism as the Foundation of the Present Chinese Culture As the most influential figure in the Chinese history, the way that the Chinese people live today is closely interrelated to the incredible teachings of Confucius.
• Confucianism Ideology and Its Usefulness The thesis statement of the discussion is that Confucianism is useful in cultivating and instilling good morals in individuals and in so doing contributes to harmonious co-existence of people in society.
• Analogies for Daosism: Self-Construction and the Attempt to Reach the Enlightenment in Comparison to Confucianism Analyzing the key concepts of Daoism, i.e, “analogies”, one can possibly figure out what the philosophy of Daoism manifests as the ultimate enlightenment, as well as compare the given ideas with the similar ones from […]
• Asian Studies: Confucianism and Buddhism in China For this reasons, Buddhism is popular followed in China and has contributed to the growth of the Chinese culture up to date.
• Confucianism and Judeo-Christianity For instance, enhanced standards of living, in countries that embrace individual freedom, such as America and Europe, are likely to be viewed in light of the size of the yard that an individual’s home covers […]
• Confucianism and its Effects on Human Rights Development Precisely, its ideas on freedom of speech and expression, fair treatment and equality before the law and its humanistic aspects have laid a basis for the propagation and protection of human rights in the world […]
• Japanese Confucianism View Point The writer illustrates that the Japanese views asserted that Confucianism was a social system which influenced morality in the society. The Confucianism view on education was that it was an essential aspect of human life […]
• Confucianism and Taoism One of the common elements between Confucianism and Taoism is their philosophical belief of the “ever changing nature of the world”.
• Daoism and Confucianism According to the teachings of Confucianism, the use of early Chinese traditions is the best and most appropriate way of having an organized community. This would lead to improvement of individuals and the society as […]
• Evidence of Confucianism in the Traditional Funeral and Post-Burial Rites of Korea The aim of this paper is to propose a research project that will explore a religious aspect of people of East Asia.
• Confucianism System For over 2,000 years, China’s poetry and history, government and social life, and the ethics of the society dominate philosophical system of Confucianism. The family reflected the social, economic, and political units of the society.
• The Strong Work Ethic of East Asian People and the Impact of Confucianism and Technological Innovations
• Understanding the Interesting and Unique Religion of Confucianism
• The Effect of Confucianism and Communism on Women in China
• Similarities Between Confucianism, Legalism, And Buddhism
• Aspects Of Judaism Daoism Confucianism In The Axial Age
• The Development of the Neo-Confucianism During Sung Times in China
• Was Confucianism Responsible For China’s Failure To Modernize
• An Overview of the Life of Confucius as the Founder of Confucianism
• Confucianism, Islam, Kinship Responsibilities and Moral Codes
• Values and Morals of Confucianism Impact Many Cultures
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• Confucianism And Taoism On The Goal Of Self Improvement
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• Benefits of Confucianism If Applied to the Philippines
• Background of Daoism and Confucianism in China and its Influences
• The Reinvention of Confucianism in Northeast Asian Societies
• The Common Grounds: Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Shintoism
• Buddhism and Confucianism Are Religions Without a God
• Why Did the Communist Revolution Originally Seek to Quell Confucianism?
• Comparing and Contrasting Confucianism and Legalism
• A Look at the Philosophy Behind Confucianism and Its Prevalence in China
• The Beliefs of China’s Religious System: Daoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism
• Disneyfication of Confucianism as Presented in Mulan
• The Consequences of Confucianism and Patriarchy on Chinese Society
• An Analysis of the Compatibility of Confucianism to Basic Human Rights
• The Role And Status Of Women In Buddhism And Confucianism
• An Analysis of the Concepts of Religion and Confucianism, Taoism, and Christianity
• Comparing the Three Major Religions: Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism
• Confucianism And It’s Implications In Modern China
• Connection between the Confucianism and the Japanese Growth during the Post-World War Two Period
• Similarities and Differences between Confucianism in China and Hinduism in India
• Confucianism and Daoism in Pre-Modern Chinese Literature
• The Influence of Caste System in India and Confucianism in China
• Confucianism And Its Impact On Chinese Culture
• The Similarities between Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism
• An Overview of Confucianism, a Philosophical System Created by Confucius
• The Effects of Neo-Confucianism on the Tang and Song Empires
• The Possibility of Economic Prosperity Under Confucianism
• A History of Confucianism in Eastern Asia between the Years of 200 and 800 C.E
• The Major Reasons for the Slow Death of Confucianism
• The Laughing Sutra by Mark Salzman: Ideas from Confucianism, Buddhism, and Hinduism
• Buddhism Hinduism Confucianism And Monotheistic Religions
• What Has Made Confucianism Such an Enduring Philosophy in the Asia Pacific Region?
• Why Is Confucianism a Religious Tradition Despite Its Lack of Concern for the Afterlife?
• What Did Confucius’ Teaching Focus On?
• How Does Confucianism and Daoism View Women?
• Are Confucianism and Islamic Ethics Applicable in the Contemporary World?
• What Does Li Mean in Confucianism?
• How Did Neo-Confucianism Respond to the Changes of Late Ming Society?
• What Important Features Do Confucianism and Filial Piety Share?
• Does Confucianism Reduce Board Gender Diversity?
• What Are the Beliefs of Confucianism?
• How Did Confucianism Impact China?
• What Are Relations Between Confucianism and Democracy?
• How Has Confucianism Influenced Economic Growth?
• What Are Relationships Between Family and Government Under Confucianism History?
• How Has Neo-Confucianism Influenced South Korea?
• What Are the Similarities and Differences Between Confucianism in China and Hinduism in India?
• When Does Confucianism Meet the Challenge of Environmental Sustainable Development?
• What Is Confucius’ Philosophy?
• What Are the Main Teachings of Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism?
• In What Ways Do Confucianism and Daoism Complement Each Other, and in What Ways Do They Oppose Each Other?
• What Relationship Was Confucianism Most Based On?
• Is Confucianism a Monotheistic Religion?
• What Aspects of the Confucian and Daoist Teachings Are Still Relevant to the 21st Century World?
• How Did Confucianism Relate to the Mandate of Heaven?
• What Are the Four Main Principles of Confucianism?
• Is Confucianism a Religion or a Philosophy?
• What Is the Definition of Confucius’ Golden Rule?
• How Did the Spread of Confucianism Affect Japanese Women?
• What Is the Ultimate Goal of Confucianism?
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IvyPanda. (2024, March 2). 121 Confucianism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/confucianism-essay-topics/

"121 Confucianism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 2 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/confucianism-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '121 Confucianism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 2 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "121 Confucianism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/confucianism-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "121 Confucianism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/confucianism-essay-topics/.

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IvyPanda . "121 Confucianism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/confucianism-essay-topics/.

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