Taoism And Confucianism

455 Words2 Pages
Taoism and Confucianism are two of China’s oldest philosophies /religions. They are often considered opposites for several reasons, although they have a few similarities Taoism focuses on the individual, spiritual life while Confucianism concerns itself with the social and moral side of life. Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao of nature. Tao means "The Way", it is the indefinable, harmonious power that flows throughout the universe. It flows through living and non-living entities. It also stresses the importance of harmonizing with nature by balancing the yin and yang and developing chi, the flow of energy, through meditation. The yin and yang is a symbol that represents the opposite components of Tao. The yin is the dark, passive, feminine part while the yang is the active, light, masculine part; these equal parts balance and complement each other as opposites in the world. Furthermore, Taoism is based on a life principle called the art of wu-wei. This principle advised that the best way to conduct oneself in life was through inaction. One does not need to be aggressive to make things happen or to win battles. On the other hand Confucianism is a philosophical, religious, movement with an emphasis on studying and scholarship. It also teaches the Tao of Heaven and provides moral training that is quite religious. Tao of heaven is the transformation of the individual into a living example of virtue as a strict duty to Heaven. The active pursuits of the Tao of Heaven are the six virtues that have to be master in order to become a virtuous person. Also, the Six Art forms the basis of Confucianism‘s education.Confucianism stresses the importance of avoiding conflict and emphasizes correct behavior. Desire is suppressed and people are expected to live by a elevated moral code. The basic beliefs and concepts of Confucianism are similar to Taoism in the sense
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