Confucianism and Taoism are two of the most popular philosophies throughout both Asia and the world, and both have a long history. While sharing a few similar elements, the two philosophies appear to contradict each other with their vast differences. One such difference is the approach that each philosophy takes towards the human condition, or what it means to be human. For Confucianism being human is developing a sense of self by incorporating the surrounding environment. To be human is to behave in a respectful way for the purpose of creating a hierarchical but harmonious society. Taoism on the other hand is different because it highlights ideals that are more ethereal. The main idea of Taoism is to embrace the Tao, a form of a greater reality.
