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Explore the core tenets of Confucianism, a system of ethics and rituals aiming to cultivate character and maintain social order. Learn about the importance of li (rites) and ren (compassion) in fostering reciprocal relationships and harmony among individuals. Discover how Confucian ideals have influenced social governance and stability throughout history.
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Confucius • Born in 551 B.C. • died in 479 B.C.
Confucianism • Concerned primarily with restoring social stability and order • What is the basis of a stable, unified, and enduring social order? • a system of social and ethical philosophy • “only when character is cultivated are our families regulated; only when families are regulated are states well governed.”
Confucianism • li • rituals, norms, institutions, or mores • the outer, conforming aspect of Confucianism • ren • humaneness, love, kindness, benevolence, or virtue • the inner, reforming aspect of Confucianism
Li • Rites, ceremonies, proper behavior, and good manner • performed in good faith, with everyone keeping to his or her proper role • universal harmony • no need for physical sanctions, laws, or punishment
Ren • Relationship between "two persons” • extension of filial piety to all human beings • each role in the hierarchy of social relations had clearly defined duties • reciprocity or mutual responsibility
Five relationships • father-child • ruler-subject • husband-wife • elder brother-younger brother • friend-friend
Confucianism • Persecuted in Qin Dynasty • 221 B.C. - 206 B.C. • promoted by later rulers
Confucianism • reinforced by the civil examination system • “keju”: civil examination • from 605 to 1905