Chapter 8 -The Unification of China Flashcards
Who was Confucius?
- Kong Fuzi
- “Master Philosopher Kong”
From which state was Confucian from?
state of Lu
What was Confucius’s personality like?
strong willed, cantankerous, bitter complaints
What were the Analects?
A book that compiled Confucians sayings and teachings; written by his pupils; influenced Chinese political and cultural traditions
What areas did Confucianism pertain to?
moral, ethical, political, and practical; did not address philosophical questions, religious questions, or structure of state
What did Confucius believe?
He believed that harmony arose from human relationships.
What were junzi?
“Superior individuals” that Confucius filled official positions with because he believed it was the best way to promote good gov. Junzi didn’t allow personal interests to influence their judgements.
What were the three qualities that Confucian emphasized?
1) ren - sense of humanity, kind, courteous, respectful, diligent, loyal
2) li - sense of propriety, treat all humans with courtesy, especially elders
3) xiao - filial piety, respect for parents, high significance of family
What accounted for Confucianism’s longevity and influence?
It was flexible and could be applied to later problems; very generalized.
Who was Mencius?
He was the most learned man of his age; principal spokesman for the Confucian school.
What value did Mencius especially emphasize?
Ren.
Light taxes, avoid words, support education, and encouraged harmony and cooperation.
What was Mencius’s personality?
He was very optimistic and ideal; little practical effect during his lifetime, but influence over long term.
Who was Xunzi?
He served as government administration.
What was Mencius’s personality?
He was more practical than Mencius; he believed that humans selfishly pursued their own interest; resisted voluntary contribution to society. He was also optimistic and thought it was possible to improve humans and restore order to society.
What value did Xunzi emphasize?
Li.
What was Daoism?
Understood natural principles that governed world and lived in harmony with them.
Who was Laozi?
Founder of Daoism
What was the Daodejing?
“classic of the way and of virtue”
basic exposition of Daoist beliefs; contributed to by several hands
What were the two most important works of Daoism?
Daodejing
Zhuangzi - written by person named Zhuanzi
How did the three schools of thought: Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism emerge?
Times of turmoil forced people to reflect on nature of society and proper roles of humans and encouraged cultural creativity.
