Belief Systems

1
Belief Systems

• China
• 500BC /-

2
Confucianism

• Confucius was Chinas best-known philosopher,
  born in about 551 B.C.
• The disorder and suffering caused by constant
  warfare disturbed Confucius. He wanted to
  restore peace.
• The Analects- book of Confucius ideas written
  down by his followers

3
5 Relationships

• 1. Ruler Ruled
• 2. Father Son
• 3. Husband Wife
• 4. Older Brother Younger Brother
• 5. Friend Friend

4

• The superior person should set an example for the
  inferior one and watch out for them.
• The inferior person should be loyal and obedient
• V. Filial Piety- respect and duty that children
  owe their parents

5
Daoism (Taoism)

• Lao Zi, the founder, emphasized the link between
  people and nature rather than the importance of
  proper behavior
• Yin and Yang- the forces of nature that balance
  each other
• A society with rules was artificial and disturbed
  natural order
• The best government has the fewest rules

6
Legalism

1. Rejected Confucian ideas about proper behavior
2. Believed people act out of self interest and
   would respond to rewards and punishment
3. Harsh laws imposed by a strong leader would keep
   society orderly