Legalism stated that the common man was ignorant and malevolent and must be controlled by the government through harsh punishments and rewards. Confucianism, thought to be founded by philosopher Confucius in the 5th century B.C.E., was a system of principles that emphasized respect, virtue, and consideration. While possessing of a spiritual bent, Confucianism does not directly address religious concepts. According to Confucian philosophy, each person’s behavior is influenced by their superiors, and by setting a moral example, authorities could help to ensure that each person would behave in a benevolent and compassionate manner. The importance of education, rituals, family life and hierarchy were greatly stressed. Confucianism appealed to the people by offering a counterpart to the brutality of previous philosophies, by dictating that emperors should be just providers, and by encouraging structure and order in Chinese society. Patriarchy, elitism, and respect for authority ensured a harmonious, if imbalanced,
Legalism stated that the common man was ignorant and malevolent and must be controlled by the government through harsh punishments and rewards. Confucianism, thought to be founded by philosopher Confucius in the 5th century B.C.E., was a system of principles that emphasized respect, virtue, and consideration. While possessing of a spiritual bent, Confucianism does not directly address religious concepts. According to Confucian philosophy, each person’s behavior is influenced by their superiors, and by setting a moral example, authorities could help to ensure that each person would behave in a benevolent and compassionate manner. The importance of education, rituals, family life and hierarchy were greatly stressed. Confucianism appealed to the people by offering a counterpart to the brutality of previous philosophies, by dictating that emperors should be just providers, and by encouraging structure and order in Chinese society. Patriarchy, elitism, and respect for authority ensured a harmonious, if imbalanced,