Unit 5: Lesson 3: Ancient Civilization in China: Confucianism and Daoism Q&A

With what ideas was the philosophy of Confucius concerned?

personal growth, social order, good government

Compare the basic ideas of Confucianism and Daoism in their approach to how people should live their lives.

Confucianism taught people to accept their place in society and to live their lives according to the duties and responsibilities of their roles in the five key relationships. Daoism taught people to focus on living in harmony with nature. Some Daoists turned away from what they considered the unnatural ways of society.

What duties and responsibilities do superiors have? How does this apply to rulers?

Superiors should care for and set a good example for their inferiors. Rulers should provide good government by being virtuous and leading by example. To this end, they should also be well educated.

What aspects of Confucianism and Daoism do you think contributed to their long-lasting influence?

The Confucian emphasis on achieving social harmony by performing the duties associated with their roles gave people a sense of structure and a map for achieving a good life. Daoism's emphasis on living in harmony with nature and the virtue of yielding to the ways of the universe gave people a way of looking beyond everyday cares.

According to Confucius, what is everyone's prime duty?

filial piety, or respect for one's parents

What are the five key relationships according to Confucius? Which is based on equality?

ruler to subject, parent to child, husband to wife, elder brother to younger brother, and friend to friend; Friend to friend is based on equality.

How does a society achieve harmony?

when people accept their place and role in society