Chinese philosophy

Chinese philosophy refers to the intellectual tradition of the Chinese culture from their early recorded history to the present day. The core philosophical schools of thought in Chinese philosophy are Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, which have significantly influenced Chinese culture, values, and worldview.

History

The history of Chinese philosophy can be traced back to the ancient Zhou Dynasty, where the 'Hundred Schools of Thought' were born. This period was characterized by significant intellectual and cultural developments and saw the rise of important philosophical schools such as Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism.

Confucianism

Confucianism is a philosophy that originated from the teachings of Confucius, a philosopher and politician in the 5th century BC. Confucianism emphasizes moral integrity, respect for authority, and the importance of rituals. It has played a significant role in shaping Chinese social relationships and moral concepts.

Daoism

Daoism, also known as Taoism, is a philosophy that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao, which can be translated as 'the Way' or 'the Path'. The Dao is considered the fundamental principle that underlies the universe. Daoism was founded by Laozi, a legendary figure in Chinese culture.

Buddhism

Buddhism entered China from India around the first century AD and became one of the three main philosophies in China. It introduced concepts such as karma, rebirth, and the goal of achieving enlightenment.

Legalism

Legalism is a philosophy that emphasizes strict adherence to laws, believing that social order is maintained through punishment and strict regulation. It was the dominant philosophy during the Qin Dynasty, which was known for its legalist policies.

Influence

Chinese philosophy has had a profound influence on Chinese culture, shaping its social structure, education system, and moral values. It has also influenced other East Asian cultures and contributed to the development of political ideologies and social theories.

See also

• Chinese culture
• Chinese history
• Eastern philosophy