Confucianism & Neo-Confucianism

Confucianism

• Founded by Confucius, who lived in a period of political chaos and turmoil in China from around 475 BC.
• Confucius established a philosophy based on the basic order of the universe, emphasizing traditional ways to achieve peace and harmony.

Key Principles of Confucianism

• Focus on morality, correctness of social relationships, justice, and sincerity.
• Importance of living up to one's name, fulfilling social obligations and duties (Ren).
• Emphasis on loving others while practicing self-discipline (Ren).
• Filial piety, showing highest respect to one's parents and the elders of society.
• The Golden Rule, treating others as one would like to be treated.

Confucius' Life and Teachings

• Confucius became a teacher and traveled to spread his ideas, gaining followers who wanted to spread his teachings.
• His followers collected his sayings and teachings into a book called The Analects.
• Believed in the importance of a leader promoting the idea of Ren by leading with humility and compassion.

Mandate of Heaven

• Confucius believed in the Mandate of Heaven, where a ruler who benefits their people and provides them with food and protection will be obeyed by their people and continue to hold the right to rule.

Neo-Confucianism

• Emerged in China during the Tang Dynasty and reached its height of cultural significance during the Northern Song Dynasty.
• Credited to Zhu Xi, who compiled the four most essential books in the Confucian tradition.
• A revival of Confucian teachings during the Song Dynasty, incorporating elements of Buddhism and Taoism.