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Early Chinese Philosophies

Early Chinese Philosophies. Legalism, Confucianism, Daoism. From Shang to Zhou. The Shang dynasty used a lot of divination, ancestor worship, and extravagant bloody rituals; the king was the “indispensible intermediary between people and gods”

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Early Chinese Philosophies

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  1. Early Chinese Philosophies Legalism, Confucianism, Daoism

  2. From Shang to Zhou • The Shang dynasty used a lot of divination, ancestor worship, and extravagant bloody rituals; the king was the “indispensible intermediary between people and gods” • The Zhou, who came next, defeated the Shang under the principal of the Mandate of Heaven—a ruler is only in power as long as he is a wise, principled, and energetic guardian of his people • Some Shang traditions were maintained, but a separation of religion and government promoted new philosophies and mystical systems

  3. Legalism • Human nature is wicked and people behave best with strict laws and harsh punishments in place • Every aspect of human society should be controlled • Personal freedom should be sacrificed for the good of the state • This all justified the wealth and power of the state government • This occurred at the end of the Zhou decline, called the Warring States Period (480-221 BCE) when order was most needed in China

  4. Confucianism • Hierarchy is the key word—both in government and in family • Father at the top, then sons, then wives and daughters in order of age; this parallels society’s structure • Government exists to serve the people • Teachings emphasize: benevolence, avoidance of violence, justice, rationalism, loyalty, and dignity • People are generally good

  5. Daoism • Cannot be defined, must be experienced • Means “the path” • Accept the world as you find it, avoid struggles, follow the path of nature (not scientifically) • Idealized individuals who found their own “path” to right conduct-an alternative to Confucian hierarchy and Legalist force • Yin and yang: complementary nature of male and female roles; balance

  6. The Tao of Pooh • "When you wake up in the morning, Pooh," said Piglet at last, "what's the first thing you say to yourself?“ "What's for breakfast? said Pooh. "What do you say, Piglet?“ "I say, I wonder what's going to happen exciting today?" said Piglet. Pooh nodded thoughtfully."It's the same thing," he said.

  7. The Tao of Pooh cont’d • "Rabbit's clever," said Pooh thoughtfully. "Yes," said Piglet, "Rabbit's clever.“ "And he has Brain.“ "Yes," said Piglet, "Rabbit has Brain.“ There was a long silence. "I suppose," said Pooh, "that's why he never understands anything."

  8. The Tao of Pooh cont’d

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