Confucian and Daoist Ethics PDF

EASTERN ETHICAL PRINCIPLES Confucian & Daoist Ethics CONFUCIAN ETHICS What is Confucianism? Confucianism is an ethical and philosophical system of moral philosophy based on the teachings of Confucius. Confucianism focuses on moral virtues, social harmony, and personal development. It serves a...

EASTERN ETHICAL PRINCIPLES Confucian & Daoist Ethics CONFUCIAN ETHICS What is Confucianism? Confucianism is an ethical and philosophical system of moral philosophy based on the teachings of Confucius. Confucianism focuses on moral virtues, social harmony, and personal development. It serves as a framework for understanding one's place in the world and the responsibilities that come with it. Ethics in Confucianism Confucian Ethis are the moral framework that guides and fosters harmonious relationships within families, communities, and society as a whole. It teaches that moral development is achieved through self-discipline, reflection, and adherence to social rituals and norms. The Life of Confucius (551-479 BCE) K'ung Fu-Tze (latinised to Confucius), was a Chinese scholar, philosopher, teacher, and politician, born in the state of Lu (modern day Shandong, China). His philosophy emphasized the importance of personal development, respect for tradition, and the proper conduct within relationships, especially within the family and society. Confucius believed that ethical behavior could lead to a just and orderly society. His ideas has became the foundation of Confucianism, influencing Chinese culture and other East Asian societies. Mengzi (372-289 BCE) - Mengzi, also known as Mencius, was a prominent Confucian philosopher. - He is considered one of the most important and influential Confucian thinkers after Confucius himself. Contribution/Beliefs: Innate goodness of Human Nature Righteous Kingship Mengzi believed that humans are inherently good, He emphasized the role of the ruler in fostering an and that through education and proper cultivation, environment where people's goodness could thrive, individuals can return to their original virtuous insisting that rules had a moral responsibility to state. care for the people. if society and governance are just, people's “the human nature is good; it is the environment and natural goodness will flourish. education that can either nurture or distort this goodness” Wang Yangming (1472-1529) Wang Yangming was a Confucian scholar during the Ming Dynasty, and one of the most influential philosophers in later Confucian thought. Contribution/Beliefs: Unity of Knowledge and Action Wang Yangming emphasized that knowing what is right and acting upon it should be inseparable. He believed that moral knowledge is not just intellectual understanding, but must be integrated into one's actions. Innate Knowledge He also taught that people possess an innate moral knowledge that introspection can guide them toward right action.  "to know is to act, and to act is to know. true knowledge comes from action, and true action arises from knowing what is right” THE "FIVE CORE CONCEPTS OF CONFUCIANISM" REN 仁 (BENEVOLENCE) ZHI 智 (WISDOM) The central virtue of Confucianism, The pursuit of knowledge and representing compassion, kindness, application of moral justice. and love. THE CORE CONCEPTS OF CONFUCIANISM LI 禮 (RITUAL / PROPRIETY) YI 義 (RIGHTEOUSNESS) Refers to social rituals, manners, and Acting in justice and integrity, even respect for tradition. when it's not one's personal benefit. XIAO 孝 (FILIAL PIETY) The respect and reverence children owe to their parents and ancestors. THE FIVE RELATIONSHIPS (WU LUN无论) 01. Ruler - Subject The ruler is expected to govern with virtue, wisdom, and fairness, while the subject is expected to be loyal, obedient, and respectful. 02. Father - Son This relationship represents the importance of filial piety (respect and devotion to one's parents). - The son should honor the father's teachings, while the father should provide guidance and care for the son. 03. Husband - Wife In this relationship, Confucius emphasizes the roles of harmony and mutual respect. The husband is expected to provide leadership and security, while the wife should manage the household and support the husband. Both partners are expected to fulfill their roles with propriety and respect. 04. Older brother - Younger brother The older brother has a responsibility to be a role model, showing care and guidance to the younger sibling, while the younger brother is expected to show respect and obedience to the older brother. This relationship highlights the importance of hierarchy and the respect for age and wisdom within the family. 05. Friend - Friend The bond between friends is based on mutual respect and equality. This relationship is built on trust, loyalty, and virtue, and it represents the ideal of genuine camaraderie.  The Role of the Gentleman (Junzi) A Junzi is a central concept in Confucian philosophy, often translated as "gentleman," "superior person," or "noble person”, someone who embodies the highest moral standards. A Junzi strives to cultivate virtues like Ren, Yi, and Zhi and serves as a model for others. In Confucianism, the ideal personality is the 聖 shèng , translated as saint or sage. However, sagehood is hard to attain and so Confucius used the noun junzi, respectable person, which more individuals could achieve.  Role of Education The Education in Confucianism is not merely about acquiring knowledge or technical skills, but about cultivating moral Importance virtues, understanding ethical principles, and learning to live in harmony with others. of Through education, individuals learn how to act with Education integrity and propriety in different situations. and Self Self Cultivation Cultivation Confucius emphasized that individuals must engage in regular self-reflection, striving to align their thoughts, feelings, and actions.  Confucian Ethics in Governance Moral Leadership Leadership is based on the example set by the ruler, who must cultivate virtues like Ren, Yi and Zhi. Confucius believed that rulers should lead by virtue, not by force or coercion. the ruler's personal morality is seen as the foundation of good governance.  Confucian Ethics in Governance Mandate of Heaven (Tianming) Mandate of Heaven is an ancient Chinese concept that Confucius embraced and elaborated upon. The authority of a ruler is granted by Heaven or the cosmos based on the ruler’s virtue and moral fitness to govern. A ruler who governs justly and with benevolence has the "Mandate of Heaven," while a ruler who becomes corrupt, unjust, or tyrannical loses this divine approval. Criticisms & Contemporary Relevance  Criticisms Gender Inequality Confucianism, historically, has been criticized for reinforcing patriarchal structures, especially in women, which conflicts with modern views on gender equality. Social Hierarchy Confucianism's emphasis on hierarchical relationships has been criticized and seen as too rigid, emphasizing authority and social roles over individual freedom.  Contemporary Relevance Despite criticisms, confucian core principles like values of family, education, and social harmony, remain influential and still resonate in modern society. DAOIST ETHICS Introduction to Daoism Daoism (Taoism) is an ancient Chinese philosophy and spiritual tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao (Tao), a fundamental principle that is the source and pattern of the universe. Ethics in Daoism Daoist ethics is a system of thought that centers around living authentically and harmoniously, in balance with nature, and in accordance with the principles of the Dao. Laozi (Old Master) Laozi (also spelled Lao Tzu), was an ancient Chinese philosopher, traditionally regarded as the founder of Daoism (Taoism). Best known for his key work, the Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching), a foundational text, outlining the core principles of Daoism, mainly focusing on the concept of Dao Laozi's teachings emphasize living in harmony with the Dao (Tao), which is the natural way or the ultimate principle that governs the universe.  THE CORE VIRTUES OF DAOISM THE DAO (TAO) ZIRAN (SPONTANEITY) The Dao, often described as a cosmic Acting according to one's true nature. force or flow, refers to the fundamental, unnameable force that underlies and Avoiding artificiality or pretense. guides the natural order of the universe. WU WEI YIN-YANG Wu Wei is the principle of “non-action” or Dual forces that are complementary and “effortless action” interdependent. Acting in accordance with the Dao, without forcing or striving,  Ethical Principles in Daoism Simplicity (Jian) Jian refers to “simplicity”, both in one's lifestyle and in one's approach in life. Daoism emphasizes living life simply allows better connection with the natural world and finding peace. Humility Humility in Daoism involves recognising one’s place in the grand scheme of things and not overestimating one's own importance. "a humble person is open to change and flexible, respecting the flow of life rather than control it"  Ethical Principles in Daoism Compassion (Ren) Compassion in Daoism means understanding the interconnectedness of all things and acting in a way that promotes harmony and care for others. compassion isn't just about feeling sympathy for others—it's about thinking that we are all interconnected. when we act out of compassion, we're supporting the natural harmony and balance of the world.  Daoist Ethics in Modern World In a world filled with materialism, competition, and conflicts, Daoist Ethics offers an alternative path based on peace, simplicity, and living in harmony with the natural world. Daoism is also relevant in modern leadership. Daoist principles are applied in today's leadership, advocating for leaders who lead by example and with wisdom. SUMMARY THANK YOU FOR LISTENING PRESENTERS: ALINSUNURIN, ALYSSA JEAN BULET, GIANE MORALES, JULES ANDRIE PADULLA, RINALIE MAE PULLAPOY, ARLENE