Chinese Philosophy Flashcards
What is Confucianism?
A system of political and moral ideas created by the philosopher Confucius. It was intended to restore balance in China at the time.
Who was Confucius?
Confucius was a philosopher who was was fed up with the the violence and moral decay of his era so he created Confucianism as a solution.
What is Daoism?
A system of ideas which teaches that the will of Heaven is based on nature being allowed to take its course.
What is Legalism?
Legalism was the third philosophy to have emerged around the time as Confucianism. However unlike the others legalist believed that humans were evil by nature, therefore with the enforcement of strict rules and harsh punishments they could keep people in check.
Who was Lao Zi?
A older master who may or may not have existed. He too created Daoism around the same time of Confucius.
What is filial piety?
The duty of family members to express their needs and desires to the male head of the family. This was an important concept to Confucianism.
What criticisms did each of China’s philosophical traditions have of the other philosophies?
They were more focused on what happened after one died, rather than what can one do now in their present life.
