Exploring Chinese Philosophies

Legalism

• Guiding Purpose: Strictly enforced laws would restore order and solve China's problems.

• Main Beliefs:

  1. People are born bad & selfish

  2. They will not do what is right unless it benefits them

  3. People have to be controlled through strict laws and harsh punishments

  4. Group punishment

Confucianism

• Guiding Purpose: Order and peace can be restored through a "code of conduct"

• Main Beliefs:

  1. People are naturally good

  2. Orderly and respectful relationships were key to a good society

  3. Rulers should serve as good role models

  4. Filial piety--respect for one's elders and ancestors

  5. One should fulfill their role in society

Confucianism

Buddhism

• Guiding Purpose: Everyone can achieve enlightenment

• Main Beliefs:

  • To end suffering one should acknowledge that all people suffer

  • One should not be jealous or want things they do not have

  • One can achieve enlightenment by following the 4 Noble Truths

  • Is considered a religion but also a philosophy