...In Chinese religion there are three traditions that have been practiced including folk religion, taoism and confucianism. This trio can also be known as the three dimensions and has had a significant impact on buddhism throughout the years. Taoism is a way of living in harmony with a group of individuals. This can also be said as living with the tao which would mean living with the path or basically getting along with one another. A significant piece of taoism is tao te ching which helped to teach various characteristics to Laozi. Laozi was the founder of tao te ching and really had a major impact on the chinese religion through the teachings from the book. Also through taoism there is wu wei a perception that Laozi uses to reveal in taoism...
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...phenomena. Knowing that it was the most violent and chaotic period in ancient Chinese history due to the conflict between the collapse of the traditional Chinese culture and the establishment of a universal empire, it was also considered to be the most creative and innovative one since it was indeed an age wherein philosophers tried to give their personal opinions regarding the world and attempted to contribute something in the history of Chinese philosophy. All the competing Chinese philosophical traditions – Confucianism, Daoism, Legalism and Mohism, among others – trace their origins back to this period which is closely identified with the wellspring of Chinese philosophical, political, and social thought. The battle of ideas among the fabled numerous masters and hundred schools of thought that lasted for more than three centuries, was fought, but at the same time, the moral, political, and social order – presided over by the Zhou – was collapsing, and old institutions and tradition were degenerating and disintegrating. This period was commonly referred to as the Golden Age of Chinese Philosophy, or simply, the period of philosophers. During the Golden Age, the most influential thinker in China was Kong Zi, also known as “Master Kong” or Confucius,...
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...How has Confucianism influenced modern economic development in East Asia? The rise of Asia’s so called “Tiger” economies followed by China, has given rise to the spectrum of a distinctly East Asian economic development model. The pioneering economic success of in particular, Singapore, South Korea and Japan since the 1970’s has highlighted the need to evaluate and distinguish how such economies achieved such successive growth. A variety of possible factors can explain or highlight possibilities for the successive development of East Asia. A particularly unique factor that has to be taken into account is Confucianism. The interplay between culture and development can help explain how in particular Japan and South Korea, which were relatively closed societies, have risen to attain the status of newly industrialized countries. This essay will investigate and evaluate, through the presentation of arguments and examples, the extent to which Confucianism has influenced modern economic development in East Asia. This will be achieved by firstly providing a working definition of Confucianism; then locating its positive impact within a broader debate concerning a distinctly Asian development model; investigating and analyzing the challenges presented by Confucianism in the economic development of East Asia; evaluating both the negative and positive implications of Confucianism in East Asian economies and finally assessing to what extent Confucianism has played a role in the development...
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...Asia, the world’s largest continent, consists of over one third of Earths total land are and approximately 60% of the world’s population. Further, a large percentage of Asia’s 4.3 billion people live in the countries of China, Japan, and India (Exploredia, 2011). Out of these densely populated countries three eastern schools of philosophy were born between the 6th and 4th centuries BCE, and it is these same ancient philosophies that flourish throughout Asia today. Confucianism, Buddhism, and Hinduism are three major schools of thought that significantly have impacted the political, social and religious views of Asian culture. Confucianism, which was inspired by Confucius, has been followed by the Chinese people for more than two thousand years (Confucianism, 2012, pp.1). Because Confucianism is described as a way of life, it is sometimes viewed as a philosophy and sometimes viewed as a religion, although it does not share the aspect of organization that most other religions share. The idea behind Confucianism is that wisdom and knowledge can be obtained through study, ritual practices, and learning from experiences. Humans are perfectible by wisdom and the ultimate goal is to reach a state of superior wisdom. The first principle Confucius taught is called the principle of mean, which is the importance of seeking balance and moderation in life. Any circumstance of extreme should be avoided. The second principle Confucius practiced is called sage, which is an intimate...
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...Confucianism Dorcas Gray REL/133 March 30, 2015 Elizabeth Jarnagin Confucianism Confucianism is an ethical system which was founded by Confucius “Master King.” Confucianism is based on Confucius belief that all persons are capable of doing good. The core idea of Confucianism is humanitarianism, and it is often thought of as a system that regulate social groups. However, according to Molloy (2013), “Confucianism is not just the ideal of an orderly society but also the ideal of a perfect human being” (p. 230). With this information, the paper will provide information on the five great relationships according to Confucianism, the ideal person act, and the role of Confucianism in Chinese culture and society today. The Five Great Relationships According to Confucianism, relationships are perceived to be a combination of individuals interwoven, and exist as a unit despite inequalities. However, these differences give rise to the development of different class of relationships which are divided into five groups such as: • Father and son – Confucians see family as the foundation of existence and the father and son relationship as the core (Molloy, 2013, p. 231). Parents have the responsibility to provide and lay a foundation for their children. Children should at all times be respectful to their parents, and when the parents are old, children are obligation to care for them. • Older and younger brother – An older brother is expected to assume the responsibility of helping...
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...Confucianism Religion in China Name Institution Course Date Confucianism comprises one of the religions of the world in China. The current China puts all efforts in a bid to see that the religion comes back and people start worshiping it. Confucianism termed as a religion, which used to exist in the 6th century BCE in China, and, which many Chinese loved to practice can come into practice again today by introducing it in schools as a subject. The religion finds its roots back after so many years not in practice. Many religious practices of the word have existed in china for so long and the Chinese respond to the traditions positively. The practices vary and the divergence of understanding increase. Confucianism named after the founder Confucius meant to unite the people of china. It got adopted as a rule to bring together the people of china. The exams set on Confucianism took only 24 to 72 hours and any male could sit for the exam. It existed from 600 to 1900 era. Under Confucianism, the humanists control the affair of the country and thus the lack of performance of the government becomes lack of performance of the Confucianism. Confucianism has helped revive businesses and lead to evolution of several achievements and thus the need for its revival. However, the idea to revive Confucianism has not gone quite well with some of the citizens in china and thus they have opted to resist it. The Christians do not see the form of religion as Godly and they decide to resist it no matter...
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...| Confucianism and Taoism | | Chinese Politics [Date] | Confucianism and Taoism are some of the major religions in China. They have greatly influenced the culture of the Chinese people as well as their world view. The connection between the two religions has influenced many people over time. It can also be said that when the principles of both philosophies are put together, the outcome is a well-rounded person. The following is a discussion of the principles and philosophies behind these two religions as well as how the two religions interact and connect to influence an individual. Confucianism is a religion that bases its philosophy and principles on the teachings of Confucius, a Chinese philosopher who lived between 551 and 478 BC. The Philosophy behind Confucianism is humanism. Confucian devotees have a positive view of human beings and human nature. The world in the Confucian religion is seen through the ideal of humanism. This means that devotees of Confucianism hold it true that human beings are improvable, teachable and perfectible. Human beings can become perfect through individual and shared effort for example self-creation and cultivation. The general philosophy of Confucianism emphasizes individual and governmental morality, rightness of social relationships, sincerity and justice of the whole community.All devotees of Confucianism should practice ethics that are exemplified by the propagation of virtues or principles. There are many virtues that adherents...
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...This article is devoted to the analysis major historical traditions of China’s international relations. Chinese specialists have long been urged to establish a distinctive school of international relations , rejecting the hegemony of “Western” social science theory and turning back to China’s history. Under the leadership of propaganda officials, Chinese authors increasingly invoke the premodern, sinocentric model of international relations in Asia, reviving the label “tianxia” (all under heaven). Reflecting Hu Jintao’s “harmonious world,” imperial China’s tribute system is now often cited as a model. These developments have thrown the spotlight on views of China’s traditions in international relations, not only inside China but across all of East Asia, where China’s rise evokes memories of a long history of interaction. Although Chinese foreign policy since 1949 has had distinctive characteristics, the forces that shape Beijing's foreign policy and many of its overall goals have been similar to those of other nations. China has sought to protect its (sovereignty) and (territorial integrity) and to achieve independence of action, while interacting with both more powerful and less powerful countries. As with most other nations, Beijing's foreign relations have been conditioned by its historical experiences, nationalism and ideology, and the worldview of its leaders, as well as by the governmental structure and decision-making process. At times China's domestic policies have had...
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...belief of reincarnation that prolong until a person reaches Nirvana the entrance to enlightenment. In fact, Gautama doctrine the "Four Noble Truths" and, the "Eightfold Path” simultaneously to reach the condition of nirvana or cessation steps one must first achieve Buddha enlightened the eight steps pathway to the elimination of suffering (Moore-Bruder, 2008). Confucius Quote: “Do not do to other what you would not want them to do to you” (Moore-Bruder, 2008). Confucianism, the philosophical system founded on the teaching of Confucius during the mid-500 BC to the late 400’s. Confucianism is the system of beliefs, teaching, and statesmanship schooling. As an influential speaker Confucius preaching and teaching advance into a religion and he became soon known as K'ung Fu Tzu; the Great Master Kung, for his teachings. Therefore, the Chinese theorist sociopolitical life and religious history mostly influence several of the Chinese culture characters and region. But at the same time religion like Buddhism or Taoist; Confucianism religious philosophy practice focus much toward living disputes. As a result, Confucius dedicated his life to preaching good moral conduct and his notion of analogy prehistoric writings was with one's ethics, morality and the accurate implement of political power (Moore-Bruder, 2008). Hsȕn Tzu Quote:...
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...Confucius on Government Analysis Amel Al-kilany Confucius (551-479 BCE) is the Chinese philosopher who founded the system of philosophical and ethical teachings known as Confucianism. While he was best known as a philosopher, he was also an educator and a political figure. His goal was to form a society that returned to its roots by participating in old customs and traditions such as filial piety and ancestral worship to succeed. Confucius also recommended to several leaders that good government was only possible through good leaders, and harmony and justice were not possible without virtuous government. Although Confucius never wrote down his own philosophy, a majority of his teachings were preserved in the Analects by his followers who recorded...
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...Contemporary Confucianism REL 133 March 11, 2014 Confucianism The system of thought known as Confucianism has its roots in the teachings of the Chinese scholar Confucius, who lived over twenty-five hundred years ago. Confucius devised a set of guidelines for individual moral development and for creating a harmonious, orderly society. During the early twentieth century, Confucianism lost its dominance in the political and educational systems of China. Throughout the modern era, the moral teachings that form the heart of Confucianism have continued to shape the attitudes and behaviors of millions of people worldwide.(Coogan, 1998) The contemporary issues can be understood by examining the common characteristics of Confucianism and other eastern religions, analyzing the interactions between the modern world and Confucianism, and studying how those interactions influence Confucianism and the modern world. Common Characteristics Among Eastern Religions Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism are three religions that make up the essence of traditional, Chinese culture. While all three religions have differences, the religions also share fundamental elements such as purpose, principle, and teachings that have created a strong and long lasting way of life for the Chinese culture. When comparing religions a person can deduce that all religions have a purpose and follow a specific set of rules, guidelines, and traditions. The vessel that leads each individual to their ultimate purpose...
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...Insanity of a Confucianism Society Insanity is, “a spectrum of behaviors characterized by certain abnormal mental or behavioral patterns” (Wikipedia). The general idea of this quote is to highlight how insanity is observed among people of diverse backgrounds. We find ourselves in a society where if every member of said society were to be examined and tested individually, everyone would be sane. However, if these same individuals were place in a group, then suddenly examined, tested or discussed collectively, it would easily be determined that everyone is insane. Everyday people go about their day-to-day activities and some degree of normality because it is expected. Yet, there are reports of various acts of insanity broadcasted through the news media almost daily. These reports and events are insane and cause some to fear, some to be dismayed while others grieve. The different aspects of our environment can place individuals in a state of insanity. If individuals are unaware of history, they are more prone to repeat the devastating acts such as cannibalism. When Lu Xun asserts, " There were no dates in history, but scrawled this way and that across every page were the words benevolence, righteousness, and morality. Since I couldn't get to sleep anyway, I read that history very carefully for most of the night, and finally I began to make out what was written between the lines; the whole volume was filled with a single phrase: Eat people!" (1240). The importance of history...
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...Religion in China was quite common for different areas of the country. The 3 religions were named Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism. The different types of religions were important because of the different times in China. Each religion had a different meaning for that religion and time period. Taoism was founded during the Zhou Dynasty in the 6th century. Taoism people believed that one should be with nature and all living things to have a living flow throughout them. Taoist believers didn’t feel that the use of rules and government should be allowed and were very unique in this way. The second religion is Confucianism. Not long after Lao-Tzu found Taoism, Confucius was discovered in 551 BCE. Confucius came up with ways to how people should live...
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...Confucius , Confucianism and the confused Confucius was legendary. According to Chinese tradition, when Confucius was born there were forty-nine marks of his future greatness on the his body, and on his chest were the visible words, “he will point out, he will act, he will decide, he will accomplish the times”. Confucius, whose actual name was Kong Qiu and courtesy name, was Zhongni, lived between 551 and 479 BC during the late years of China's Spring and Autumn Period (770- 476 BC). He was born in the city of Qufu, which was located in the ancient Chinese state of Lu. A great thinker, educator and statesman as well as one of the most learned people of his time; Confucius was also the founder of a school of moral doctrine that encourages "justice" and "peace," known today as Confucianism. The philosophy of Confucius emphasized personal and government morality, correctness, of social relationships, justice and security. Confucianism has a decisive influence on traditional Chinese culture. Later generations honored Confucius as "the sage of sages" and "the teacher of all ages." Confucius exposed the well-known principle “do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself”, an early version of the golden rule. Confucius taught more than 3,000 disciples, regardless if they were rich or poor. Those who really wanted to learn were all accepted by Confucius as his disciples and had an equal opportunity to be educated. Confucius is the founder of Confucianism. In its...
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...Confucianism Paper Jeremiah W. Johnson REL/133 April 25, 2016 Abstract Confucianism is a belief system developed by Confucius and Chinese tradition. It encompasses the importance of educational and moral development in individuals. The perfect human being must have the qualities of saint, scholar, and gentleman. To accomplish this, one must adhere to the guidelines of the ‘Five Great Relationships and the Five Virtues.” Confucianism Paper Confucianism developed during the Spring and Autumn Period from the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius (551–479 BCE), who considered himself a retransmitted of Zhou values. Its metaphysical and cosmological elements developed in the Han Dynasty following the replacement of its contemporary, the more Taoistic Huang-Lao, as the official ideology. More privately, Chinese emperors would still make use of the historical Realpolitik of the Chinese, termed Legalism. The disintegration of the Han in the second century CE opened the way for the soteriological doctrines of Buddhism and Taoism to dominate intellectual life at that time. 5 Great Relationships According to Confucius, each person had a specific place in society and certain duties to fulfill. Confucius hoped that if people knew what was expected of them they would behave correctly. Therefore, he set up five principal relationships in which most people are involved. These relationships were (1) ruler and subject; (2) father and son; (3) elder brother and younger brother;...
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