Confucianism

Description: Confucianism is based on the teachings of Konfuzi, who is called Confucius by westerners. The goal of Confucianism was a just and peaceful society. There were five basic relationships: ruler and subject, husband and wife, father and son, older sibling and younger sibling, and friend and friend. All people were taught to respect their elders. In return, elders had to set a good example. Confucianism had a very practical effect on government under a later dynasty, the Han Dynasty. The teachings of Confucius also had a major influence on Chinese culture. Many values became deeply woven into Chinese society.

Daoism
Description: Like Confucianism, Daoism tried to give answers to the problems of the right living and good government. The wise man of Daoism was Laozi. Daoism was based on the ancient Chinese idea of Dao or the way. Dao was the force that gave order to the natural universe. It taught that people gained happiness and peace by living in harmony or agreement with the way of nature called yin and yang. Yin means shaded and yang means sunlit. The Daoists taught that people followed the way of nature by living simple lives of quiet meditation. People should accept whatever comes. The Daoists believed that everyone has to discover the Dao for themselves. It encouraged rulers to rule less harshly Daoisms important influence was on Chinese thought, writing, and art.

Legalism
Description: Legalism came out during Chinas time of trouble. It gave different answers to the problems of order and good government than either Confucianism or Daoism. Legalism was based on the teachings of Hanfeizi. Legalism was based on the idea that most people are naturally selfish. Legalists said that people always pursue their own self-interest. They are not relied upon to have a good influence on one another. Hanfeizi said that ruler should not trust anyone, not even their own families. Legalist philosophy had almost immediate influence on government in China. Rulers of the Qin Dynasty read and admired Hanfeizis writings. They wanted to build a strong central government and a well-organized society. They adopted Legalists ideas. People were forbidden to criticize the government. Many people were put to death for disloyalty and other crimes.