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Confucianism & Taoism. Compare & Contrast. Similarities. Originated in China Can be considered philosophies Founders were contemporaries Does not concern itself with the underlying causes of the universe Concerned with human behavior Became rivals Have recorded beliefs
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Confucianism & Taoism • Compare & Contrast
Similarities • Originated in China • Can be considered philosophies • Founders were contemporaries • Does not concern itself with the underlying causes of the universe • Concerned with human behavior • Became rivals • Have recorded beliefs • Became popular w/upper class
Confucianism • Recorded sayings are the Analects • Founded by Confucius – a.k.a. The First Teacher • Born in 551B.C. • Upset by violence and moral decay of his age (era of warring states) • Interest in philosophy was political and ethical
Confucianism - continued • Confucian view of Tao is duty (1st Key) and humanity • Concept of duty is expressed in the form of a “work ethic” • Ruler must set a good example
Confucianism - continued • Everyone should be governed by the Five Constant Relationships: • Parent and child • Husband & wife • Older sibling to younger sibling • Older friend to younger friend • Ruler to subject
Taoism(Tao “the way of nature” • Founded by Lao Tzu • Scholars aren’t sure if he really existed • Record of beliefs is Tao Te Ching • Believe that the true way to follow the will of heaven is not action, but inaction • Became increasingly formal from the Han period on
Confucianism - continued • Disagreed with Taoism’s emphasis on mystery and magic • Second key is humanity • Sense of compassion for others • Others should be tolerated
Taoism - continued • Best way to act in harmony is to let nature take its course by not interfering with it – through humility and frugal living • More associated with a religion (polytheistic) than Confucianism • Emphasized nature’s mystery and magic • Disagreed with Confucianism’s emphasis on political activity and learning