Thursday, March 16, 2006

Zhou Dynasty Philosophies

The Zhou Dynasty brought about years of fighting. Loyalty to the Zhou king lessened. Many lords refused to fight against invaders. The lords began to fight each other leading to the Warring States period of China.

During the late Zhou person, thinkers known as philosophers, came up with ideas about how to restore order to China.

There were three important Chinese philosophies that influenced that chinese way of thinking during the Zhou dynasty.

Confucius:

Founder: Confucius

Main Idea: People should put the needs of their family and community first.

Influence on Modern Life: Many Chinese today accept hi idea of duty to family. His ideas helped open up government jobs to people with talent.



Legalism:

Leader: Shi Huangdi

Main Idea: Society needs a system of harsh laws and strict punishment.

Influence on Modern Life: Legalists developed laws that became an important part of Chinese history.


Daoism:

Founder:Laozi

Main Idea: People should give up worldly desires in favor of nature and the Dao.

Influence on Modern Life: Daosim teaches the importance of nature and encourages people to treat nature with respect and reverence.


Which philosophy do you think is correct and why?