Compare And Contrast Taoism And Confucianism

Confucianism and Taoism are primeval Chinese religions. They were both philosophies, which began in China. Neither were proposed to be religions at the era though by tradition they have been treated as such by many adherents and scholars. It is very difficult to separate Chinese religions given that most exist simultaneously within each practice and beliefs. However, there are certain elements that make each religion stand out as its own. Confucianism, for example, believes in setting an excellent example for others in hope that they too will follow it; primarily in the Five Relationships. Taoism however, focuses more on living harmoniously through the concept of yin and yang. Their beliefs on the afterlife as well as their suffering and the problem of evil differentiate slightly making both religions stand out. Confucianism heavily stresses on human conduct over belief in God. It focuses on the ethics and personal moral attainment, social relationships, good environment, and creating “the good” in the here and now. Most importantly Confucians believe that society can be saved through Jen ( Fisher 188). Their understanding of moral modification is filial piety: Hsiao, to one’s parents. Their human nature is having respect to those that are superior to them. It’s ultimate principle is all about the brotherhood of …show more content…
In Confucian, the person tries to improve themselves through orderly adherence with codes of behaviors and with respect for their elders. The reward is received if and only if they follow this throughout their life and also pay maximum respect to The Five Relationships. Taoism shares the same concepts of self-improvement, however, the individual tries improving himself through Tao ( the way, universal energy). The reward is mainly after they pass away into the next life and through