Confucianism and Daoism

WORLD CIVILIZATIONS TO 1500

Philosophies & Faiths in China

Focus: Confucianism & Daoism

Lecture Outline

1. Political Context for Confucianism and Daoism

   • China under the Zhou Dynasty (1050-250 BCE): The Zhou Dynasty established a feudal system that provided initial unity and stability, yet its later period was marked by fragmentation due to internal rivalries and external threats, showcasing the complexities in governance and societal structures.

   • The Warring States Period (500-222 B.C.E.): A time of strife that necessitated new philosophies, as real power lay with rulers of semi-independent kingdoms, resulting in intellectual advancements and cultural flourishing.

2. The Emergence of Confucianism

   • Confucius (551-479 B.C.E.): Born to a lower nobility family, Confucius pursued various roles including teacher and government official, where he sought reforms that would promote moral integrity in leadership. Despite initial challenges gaining political traction, his ideas laid the groundwork for one of the world’s major philosophies.

   • Basic Principles of Confucianism: Comprised mainly in the "Analects," his teachings stress ethical and practical approaches emphasizing human-heartedness (Ren) and the importance of societal relationships.

   • Five Relationships: These relationships (ruler-subject, father-son, husband-wife, elder brother-younger brother, friend-friend) establish the foundation for a harmonious society leading to a stable government.

   • Key Concepts:

     • Ren: Represents compassion and benevolence towards others.

     • Li: Refers to proper etiquette, aiming to cultivate respect and humility in social interactions.

     • Filial Piety: Emphasizes obedience and respect for one's parents, seen as a cornerstone of Confucian ethics.

   • Confucian Governance: Advocated for moral leadership over coercive power; insisted that government staff should be chosen based on merit rather than birth. Confucius famously stated, "What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others."

3. The Emergence of Daoism

   • Laozi (ca. 600s-500s B.C.E.): Often considered the founder of Daoism, his life and teachings are attributed to the text "Tao Te Ching," which lays down the principles of Daoist thought.

   • Basic Principles of Daoism: Focuses on achieving harmony with the natural order and encourages a spontaneous way of living. This philosophy advocates minimal governance, where leaders adopt an unobtrusive role in societal affairs.

   • Yin & Yang: A prominent symbol representing balance and the interdependence of opposites within nature.

   • Forms of Daoism:

     • Philosophical Daoism: Promotes mental tranquility and conservation of energy.

     • Popular Daoism: Involves practices such as Tai Chi, focusing on harmony and balance.

     • Religious Daoism: Encompasses rituals and worship, especially regarding Laozi as a deity.

4. The Arrival of Buddhism in China

   • Spread of Buddhism (100s BCE - 200s CE): Initially viewed as a sect of Daoism, Buddhism grew in prominence, influencing various aspects of Chinese culture, philosophy, and society. It coexisted with Confucianism and Daoism, enriching the spiritual landscape of China.

Key Terms

• Warring States Period

• Zhou Dynasty

• Analects

• Confucius (Kung Fuzi)

• Five Relationships

• Ren and Li

• Filial Piety

• Laozi

• Tao

• Yin/Yang

• Tao Te Ching (Classic of the Way and Power)

Introduction to Eastern Philosophies

• Around 500 BCE, Buddhism arose as a challenge to prevailing social structures, while Confucianism and Daoism also emerged as pivotal frameworks within Chinese thought.

• Confucianism's enduring influence shaped societal norms and governance, while Daoism evolved into a multifaceted belief system incorporating various interpretations and practices.