Chinese Philosophies Summary

Confucianism

Founder and Texts

• Founder: Confucius
• Important Text: Analects ("Selected Sayings")

Views on Human Nature

• Humans are naturally good

Government Principles

• Rulers as role models
• Officials selected through examinations
• Emphasizes duty and humanity

Education

• Extremely important
• Focus on study of Confucianism

Key Relationships

1. Parent and child
2. Husband and wife
3. Older sibling and younger sibling
4. Older friend and younger friend
5. Ruler and subject

Contributions to Society

• Emphasis on education
• Filial piety and respect for elders
• Code of politeness

Legalism

Founder and Texts

• Founder: Han Fei
• Important Text: Basic Writings

Views on Human Nature

• Humans are naturally evil

Government Principles

• Detailed laws and clear punishments
• Rulers must never show emotions

Education

• Does not value education
• Distrust in individuals

Taoism (Daoism)

Founder and Texts

• Founder: Lao Tzu
• Important Text: Tao Te Ching

Views on Human Nature

• Focus on living in harmony with nature
• Humility and a simple life

Government Principles

• Fewer laws, rulers should enforce less
• "Action through no action"

Contributions to Society

• Importance of balance and harmony
• Concept of Yin and Yang: Opposites complement each other
• Represents life cycles

Chinese Buddhism

• Various forms of Buddhism spread throughout China
• Emphasizes balance between concepts in life.