Sample Essay On Confucianism And History Of China

Confucianism is a philosophical as well as a religious tradition in China that has also extended all the way through East Asia. It was developed from the teachings of a great Chinese Philosopher Confucius, although he said that he was not the inventor but somewhat the transmitter of traditions and values.
During Confucius’ lifetime, the structure of politics had been disintegrating. The main purpose of Confucianism is to re-establish political and social harmony through revitalization of the moral values of the educated elite and the ruling class. Confucianism was the authorized state ideology during the Han dynasty after the end legalism in the Qin Dynasty. After the Han period, it continued to expand and guided the leadership system of China. Chinese rulers used Confucianism and combined it with Legalism to form ruling principles. It was replaced by Taoism and Buddhism after the fall of Han.
The major virtues of Confucianism are humanity, ritual propriety and filial respect. It promotes virtues using the concept of governing one’s self to govern other people. Confucianism has influenced many philosophers that it developed further and influenced the Taoism principles. Moreover, translations of Confucian virtues also influence philosophers in Europe including the Deists. They are interested in incorporating Confucian system of morality into Western people.
Confucianism became the dominant influence on Chinese society over these other philosophies because the ethics of Confucianism is humanistic and was practiced by many people through time. Although Confucianism fell and was replaced, it was revived during the Song dynasty. The revival was influenced by both Daoism and Buddhism.

Bibliography

Adler, Joseph A. Confucianism in China Today. New York: Kenyon College Press, 2011.
Taylor, Rodney L., and Howard Choy. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Confucianism . New York: The Rosen Group, Incorporated, 2003.