Confucianism, Daoism, Legalism (+Buddhism in China)

When Buddhism reached China, the followers of which Chinese philosophy most likely embraced the new religion? Explain your choice.

Followers of Taoism were more likely to embrace Buddhism because they both pushed less government and both believed in an outside spiritual force/ factor that influenced the world.

What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state? (explain)

Han Fei was against individuality and primitive initiative. In Fei's ideal state, people would only practice and value initiatives that helped to maintain social order. This was a way of keeping people from rebelling and instituted a mutual moral construct.

What is the TAO (DAO)? How is it described?

Tao is described as an imperishable infinite void derived from nature.

What qualities / behaviors are greatly valued by Daoists?

Acceptance and internal reflection are both greatly valued by Doaists. This is because Taoism pushes people to accept things for the way they are and to focus on the things that they can control. Daoists also pushes one to reflect one oneself and to better themselves through nature.

why did Confucianism end

Confucianism ended because China was in rebellion against the west and rebellion didn't follow the confucius code of conduct. Also, confucianism was no longer considered the national religion and supported a social hierarchy; while Legalism, the religion adopted after confucianism, order and a path to follow.

Why did some Chinese feel threatened by Buddhism and its appeal? Explain.

Confucius Leaders and followers felt threatened by Buddhism because buddhism pushed less government and disregarded one's social class and education; while, confucianism pushed government and stressed the importance of education and one's social class.

Why would Daoism appeal to some people in China, especially during the times of instability and disorder?

Daosim appealed to some people during this time period because there was a lot of internal chaos and conflict, and this created a large power vacuum, which was filled by Daosim., Daoism pushed people to focus on better themselves and the things that they could control, creating a complacent society that was easy to manipulate and control. Although Daisom did stunt China's intellectual growth.

What members of the Chinese society most likely embraced Legalism? Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?

I think those in a lower social class were the most likely to embrace Legalism because Legalism pushed a set of laws that benefited and punished people for their actions. It did not matter your social class or ethnicity, everyone was held to the same standards. It also stood out to people because Legalism came at the end of confucianism and there was a large power vacuum. China was no longer controlled by the West and its people were looking for order and a set of laws to follow.

In Han Fei's ideal state, what is the supreme governing authority: the will of the ruler or the law? (underline quotes to support your answer) (legalism)

In Han Fei's ideal state the government is in control over "chastisement and commendation". This is because if this responsibility fell under the priest or religious leader there would be no justice system or punishment for the unnoble. As it is "chastisement and commendation" that keep a civilization in check. If it were not for this system of accountability people would become corrupt and the government would lose control. When the government is in control of these two handles there is a set system of order and control.

Why do you think his philosophy appealed to many people in Chinese society right after Confucius' death? (think of the time period and what was going on in China at that time)

Philosophy appealed to so many people after the death of Confucianism because China had just fought a rebellion against the West. As a result, there was a power vacuum in China's government and the people were looking for political order.

What qualities and behaviors are emphasized by Confucius?

Respecting your elders, repenting and then learning from your mistakes, being selfless, not relying on others for your sense of self, are all traits that are sought after in Confucianism.

What is Confucius' view of human nature?

The Confucius belief is that people are born with a moral standard and code, that is not reliant on one's upbringing.

What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?

The two handles are "chastisement and commendation." The king or political leader should handle punishment and reward for merit, as they are the two most valuable tools in governing a society. If a minister was in control of both those handles then he would have absolute control and there would be a lack of punishment for those who are unlawful. This is why Fei stresses the importance of state or government control over "chastisement and commendation," as they are the key factors in any state.

How can, according to Confucius, order and stability be achieved in a society?

order and respect is found in confucianism by respecting and learning from your elders and those wiser than you, while relying on your moral code and sense of right and wrong. Also, there is a strong emphasis on family hierarchy and fulfilling "your '' designated destiny.