Research Paper On Confucianism

Words: 1510
Pages: 7

Confucianism played an important role in the way China is today. Kong Qiu (K'ung Ch'iu) was the founder of Confucianism. His Latinized name was Confucius. This was created by Jesuit missionaries in China during the 16th century. Confucius taught sons of wealth when formal education was not very popular in China. He went from place to place with a little group of disciples who would eventually assume important positions in the government. He said humans were unable to comprehend the concepts of heaven and life after death. Instead, he believed that people should focus on doing what is right during their life now. Records from his student show that he specifically taught an attitude of respect towards elders; such as one’s parents and teachers. Confucius also promoted the honoring of other’s culture. His teachings were eventually explained by modern Chinese philosophers to be respect authority and not questioning obedience. Confucius was alive from 551 to 479 BC. He lived in the state of Lu, which …show more content…
In Chinese, jūnzǐ means “lord's son”. It is a term that is frequently interpreted to mean gentleman or great person. Confucius uses this term in his works to illustrate the ideal man. One who is wise or a sage has the ideal personality in Confucianism. Many believe that it is hard to become one, however. It is taught in Confucianism that it is possibly for anyone to achieve junzi. The junzi has many characteristics. He can be poor, he acts before he speaks, and he exemplifies loyalty, obedience and wisdom. One who is junzi can rely on himself for discipline. The first virtue, Ren, is essential in becoming a junzi. Confucius believed in establishing good relationships. Such relationships include a child respecting their parents and teachers. Another example is an elder providing wisdom and setting a good example for those younger than them. This concept is still present today in cultures throughout East