Confucius and Lao Tzu

• Confucius lived from 551-479 BCE during the Spring and Autumn Period
• Confucius is also known as Kong Fuzi or Kong Qiu
• Confucius emphasized moral principles, societal harmony and ethical behavior in his teachings
• Confucius believed that society would prosper if people followed a system of values prioritizing morality, loyalty and respect
• Ren means benevolence/goodness and describes treating others with kindness, compassion and empathy
• Li means following social standards, formal behavior and ceremonies
• Xiao means respecting onces parents and ancestors
• Yi means acting with moral integrity and fairness
• Zhi means learning new things and bettering oneself
• Confucius taught that respecting hierarchical relationships leads to lasting peace and stability
• Lao Tzu lived from the 6th to 5th century BCE
• Lao Tzu is also known as Laozi or Lao-Tze.
• Lao Tzu was a Chinese philosopher who helped establish Daoism (Taoism).

Lao Tzu Teaching

• The Tao (The Way) means the natural way of living
• Wu Wei (Non-Action) means taking no unnecessary actions and not forcing things to happen
• P'u (Receptivity) means being open and ready to receive new experiences or ideas

Similarities Between Lao Tzu and Confucius

• Both taught that living a virtuous life is essential
• Both emphasized the importance of respecting others
• Both encouraged people to live simple lives

Differences Between Lao Tzu and Confucius

• Confucius focused on social rules, morality and governance
• Lao Tzu focused on living in harmony with nature and finding inner balance.
• Confucius believed in taking action to improve society
• Lao Tzu advocated for a more passive approach, allowing things to unfold naturally.
• Confucius believed that humans are inherently good but need guidance
• Lao Tzu believed that humans are inherently good and should be allowed to flourish naturally.