Classical China was composed of several major schools of philosophy that associated with life on earth rather than spiritual values. Philosophical ideals emphasized a good life on earth and the virtues of obedience to the state rather than speculations about God and heaven. Confucius, or King Fuzi preached Confucianism which was essentially a system of ethics accentuating virtue and reverence throughout society. Additionally, during the Qin and Han dynasties, an alternate system of political thought arose called Legalism. This philosophical belief was centered around the notion that human nature was naturally evil and required restraint and discipline. Finally, Daoism emerged in the later portion of the Zhou dynasty and it truly embraced
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Veneration and loyalty towards family members was a crucial component of the philosophy as well. Essentially, leaders were expected to set a good example which would inspire moral righteousness throughout society. According to Document 1, “Filial piety and brotherly respect are the root of humanity.” This exhibits the importance of reverence and loyalty towards elders and brothers within Confucianism. The ideal ruler according to Confucianism should show respect towards his peers and should also be revered by citizens living in the society. If there is mutual veneration and respect between a ruler and citizens, society would operate in a cohesive manner. Furthermore, leaders should set a good example by leading with virtue because the people will follow him. As stated in Document 2, “The character of a ruler is like wind and that of the people is like grass. In whatever direction the wind blows, the grass always bends.” Ultimately, the citizens will model the ruler’s behavior and he will no longer have to issue commands. Consequently, punishments would not be necessary as citizens would follow the example set by the ruler. Finally, Document 3 discusses social order and states that if preventative measures are taken, Heaven cannot cause negative circumstances to unfold. Primarily, order within society prevents negative situations from
Veneration and loyalty towards family members was a crucial component of the philosophy as well. Essentially, leaders were expected to set a good example which would inspire moral righteousness throughout society. According to Document 1, “Filial piety and brotherly respect are the root of humanity.” This exhibits the importance of reverence and loyalty towards elders and brothers within Confucianism. The ideal ruler according to Confucianism should show respect towards his peers and should also be revered by citizens living in the society. If there is mutual veneration and respect between a ruler and citizens, society would operate in a cohesive manner. Furthermore, leaders should set a good example by leading with virtue because the people will follow him. As stated in Document 2, “The character of a ruler is like wind and that of the people is like grass. In whatever direction the wind blows, the grass always bends.” Ultimately, the citizens will model the ruler’s behavior and he will no longer have to issue commands. Consequently, punishments would not be necessary as citizens would follow the example set by the ruler. Finally, Document 3 discusses social order and states that if preventative measures are taken, Heaven cannot cause negative circumstances to unfold. Primarily, order within society prevents negative situations from