Confucianism

Life and Times of Confucius

Confucius, who probably lived from 551 BCE-479 BCE, was most likely born in the state of Lu, now part of Shandong province, in China.  The Chinese knew him by the name Kung Fu-tzu, which has been Latinized by Europeans to Confucius. Based upon the little evidence available, it is believed that Confucius was of good birth born into a family who had fallen upon hard times. According to legend, Confucius aspired to advise several rulers, but unsuccessful at this endeavor, became a teacher and moral exemplar.

Confucius lived during a critical time in Chinese history called the Warring States period (475–221 BCE) during which several states fought against each other in an attempt to expand their influence over what is now China. It was out of this period that the China known today emerged in the third century BCE under the unification of the Qin Empire. While several important schools of thought emerged at this time, the ideas developed by Confucius had lasting impact for China and the entire region.

After his death, varying successors and adherents contributed to the spread of the Confucian tradition. It is believed that his ideas were documented in writing by a successor known as Mencius. As with many great schools of thought, continued debate and discussion about Confucius’ ideas have kept his teachings alive.

What did Confucius believe?

Introduction

Confucianism is rooted in the belief that familial relationships are the foundation for society. The basis of the relationship between children and their parents is the concept of filial piety. Thismeans that children will demonstrate devotion and dedication to their parents in both thought and actions––beginning in childhood and lasting throughout adulthood. In addition, interactions within a family based on proper conventions and rituals (li) serves more than just the purpose of creating harmony within the family. Strong emphasis is placed on the role of the family for inculcating children in proper behavior to prepare them for life in a society that is based on hierarchy, respect, and education.

Education

Confucius’s teachings center on the importance of education in the formation of a person’s character. Confucius felt that education was paramount in the development of just leaders. Those shaped by an education that stressed moral behavior and those mentored by benevolent individuals would be best suited to rule.

Five Key Relationships

The teachings of Confucius advocated behavior that showed obedience and respect for superiors, be they elder family members, ancestors, or leaders. Confucius believed that humans are inherently social beings. Adherence to conventions or rituals (li) would ensure harmony.

Correct behavior within the framework of a set of relationships was necessary to advance harmonious interactions. The subordinate person was always to defer and learn from the superior person in the relationship.

At the same time, the superior person had a responsibility to act as a custodian for the subordinate person. This expectation extended from relationships among family members to leaders and their subjects. The 5 key relationships are listed in the table below:

Superior	Subordinate
Ruler Husband Parent Elder brother Friend	Ruled Wife Child Younger brother Friend

What role does Confucianism play today?

Confucius is one of the world's most influential philosophers. Today, his philosophy continues to influence large groups of people across Asia and throughout the world. Countries that show the most significant imprint of Confucianism are China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam.  Confucianism manifests itself in the way children defer to their elders and parents (filial piety) and in the hierarchical structure within offices among employees of different ages and levels of experience.  Confucianism also plays a role in the expectations people place upon government and upon its legitimacy.