Chinese Belief Systems

CONFUCIANISMConfucianism is a Chinese ethical and philosophical system developed from the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius

Confucius•551-479 BCE

•Born in Feudal state of Liu

•Became a teacher and editor of books

04/22/2023 4

It is transformative – seeks to make you a different, better person

Confucianism: Mental transformation into a morally perfect person

Major Confucian Principles

Li- Rite, rules, ritual decorum Ren-HumanenessShu-Reciprocity, empathy (Do not do unto

others what you would not want others to do unto you.

Yi-RighteousnessXiao-Filial Piety (Respect your elders)

04/22/2023 6

To transform all people into ethical beings

To attain the good things in life

To create a just society

Aim:

Methods of ConfucianismStudy the classics and other scripturesPut the needs of others before your ownAssociate only with good peopleStudy the world around youRevere your ancestorsRespect the relations between peoples

Ruler SubjectFather SonHusband WifeOlder brother Younger BrotherOlder Friend Younger Friend

04/22/2023 8

Confucian establishment:Imperial cult

04/22/2023 9

City gods

Confucian establishment:

04/22/2023 10

Confucian establishment

Confucian Temples and ceremonies

LEGALISM

Legalism•Han Fe Zi•280-233 B.C.E.•Lived during the late warring states period•Legalism became the political philosophy of the Qin (Ch’in) Dynasty