Confucianism Basics
What problem in China did Confucius want to fix?
Disorder and chaos in China; breakdown of respect and morality.
According to Daoists, what should people follow to live well?
The natural way of the universe; the Dao.
Legalists believed people are naturally ____.
Selfish or naturally bad / cannot be trusted.
Which philosophy focused on harsh laws?
Legalism
Who founded Confucianism?
Confucius (Kongfuzi)
What is the most important virtue in Confucianism?
Respect (especially respect for elders / filial piety).
What does “Dao” mean?
The Way / the natural path of the universe.
According to Legalism, what do rulers need most to keep order?
Strict laws and a strong central authority.
Which philosophy encouraged living in harmony with nature?
Daoism
Who is believed to be the author of the Dao De Jing?
Laozi (legendary figure)
Name one of the five key relationships.
Ruler → Subject
Father → Son
Husband → Wife
Older Sibling → Younger Sibling
Friend ↔ Friend
What is wu wei?
Acting by not acting—go with the flow; avoid unnecessary effort.
How did Legalists believe people should be punished?
Harshly and uniformly, punishments should be severe.
Which philosophy stressed respect in relationships?
Confucianism
What is the name of the book that contains Confucius’s teachings?
The Analects.
How should rulers lead, according to Confucian beliefs?
Rulers should lead by example and act morally/virtuously.
What did Daoists believe the government should look like?
Small, simple government is best.
Who was the most famous Legalist leader?
Hanfeizi (or Qin Shihuangdi as the ruler who used it).
Which two philosophies believed rulers should set a good example?
Confucianism and Daoism
What does “legalism” literally mean?
“Rule by law” or “belief in law.
Why did Confucius think education was important?
Education teaches people to behave properly and improve society.
How did Daoists think harmony could be achieved?
Harmony comes from balancing nature, the Dao, and living simply.
What was the Legalist view on trust between rulers and subjects?
Rulers should NOT trust anyone; strict control is necessary.
Put all three philosophies in order from most strict to least strict.
Strict → Least strict:
Legalism
Confucianism
Daoism
What does the concept of yin and yang represent?
Opposite forces that work together in balance