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