Philosophies Of China Flashcards
What was Confucius’s occupation?
He was a teacher
What was the “ru” class?
Specialists in the “six arts”, ceremonial, music, archery, charioteering, history, and math. Confucius was a member of this class.
What were the key books in Confucius’s time?
The Book of History, Poems, Change, Spring and Autumn Annals, and the Book of Rights. These books shaped Confucius’s morals and views.
What is the Confucian way to improve society?
To act within the roles of society.
What was Confucius’s ultimate concern?
To bring order and harmony to society.
What is “li”?
Good conduct of rituals.
Why are rituals important in Confucianism?
They provide order.
What is “ren”?
An outward display of virtue and sincerity—a person’s motivation.
What is “ren” coupled with “li”?
It brings harmony, respect, and dignity.
What are the five key relationships in Confucianism?
Ruler and Subject, Older Brother and Younger Brother, Father and Son, Husband and Wife, and Friend and Friend.
What is family’s use in Confucianism?
To keep society peaceful.
What is filial piety?
Respect for your family and elders.
What are four things that every Confucianist must have?
Integrity, Loyalty, Generosity, and Politeness.
What is “tian”?
The heaven or universe deity (no personality).
What does “tian” affect?
What good or bad things happen.
What is the “dao”?
The way by which the universe functions harmoniously.
What is the ultimate concern for Daoists?
Harmonization with the universe.
What are ying and yang?
The two energies that make up the universe.
To Daoists, what is health?
The mind and body interacting with another.
Where is the Dao found?
In nature.
What is a Daoist goal?
To live in harmony with nature.
How do you become one with the Dao?
Reject formal knowledge and learning, rely less on logic and more on instinct, discover the rhythm of nature, and ignore political and social laws.
To Legalists, what is the key to social order?
A highly efficient and powerful government.
In Legalism, how can social order be maintained?
With severe punishments and occasional rewards.
True or False: Legalists wanted the government to control only the actions of the people.
False. Legalists believed that a person’s ideas should be controlled as well.
How did Confucianism impact Chinese society?
Rulers stressed the importance of moral values and respect for elders.
What is something a Daoist would do to search for knowledge and understanding?
They would contribute to science.
Which religion opposed Confucianism?
Legalism, because it emphasized punishment based on order, rather than order based on virtue.
