Confucianism, Daoism, Legalism

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism as presented in the notes.

filial piety

Respect for one's elders; essential ingredient in securing social harmony and stability in Confucian thought.

The Age of Warring States

The chaotic period (c. 500–221 BCE) in China that motivated the development of Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism.

junzi

Confucian term for the “superior person” — a moral leader, gentleman scholar, and expert in Confucianism.

Confucius

Chinese philosopher whose ideas formed the basis of Confucianism, emphasizing moral relationships and education.

jen

Humanity, virtue, benevolence, and goodness; cultivated by the junzi to set an example for others.

Confucianism

Philosophical system emphasizing moral behavior, benevolence in relationships, education, and merit-based governance.

meritocracy

System where government positions are earned through merit and performance, notably via Confucian exams.

the Analects

A collection of sayings and ideas attributed to Confucius, a key Confucian text.

dao (tao)

The Way; the natural order and path central to Daoist thought.

the Mandate of Heaven

Divine justification for rulers; legitimacy granted to a virtuous ruler and revoked when governance deteriorates.

the Dynastic Cycle

Pattern of the rise, endurance, decline, and replacement of dynasties based on virtue and mandate.

Laozi

Foundational Daoist thinker traditionally credited with authoring the Daodejing.

Daoism

Philosophical tradition advocating harmony with the Dao, withdrawal from excessive social effort, and simple living.

Daodejing

Daoist classic written by Laozi outlining key Daoist principles and the Dao.

Legalism

Philosophical system arguing that human nature is selfish; emphasizes strict laws, centralized authority, and censorship.

five key unequal relationships

Ruler–subject, father–son, husband–wife, older brother–younger brother, and friend–friend as the core Confucian social structure.