Ancient China 4.4 The Unification of China

Chaos of Warring States leads to New Philosophies Scholars try to restore Social order, Harmony, & Respect for authority

3 Philosophical Systems Confucianism Daoism (Taoism) Legalism

Yin & Yang Opposite rhythms of the universe Yin: Earth, Feminine, Passive, Tiger Yang : Sky, Masculine, Active, Dragon

Confucius (551 – 479 BC) China’s greatest scholar Social harmony & good Govt. depend on the duties of 5 relationships

– ruler & subject – father & son – husband & wife – older brother & younger – friend & friend

Confucianism

Dominant philosophy of China

– was supported by some Emperors

Values

–Social Order through

Filial Piety

–Education is important to society –Everyone has Civic Responsibility –Govt. jobs (civil service) should be

based on Merit

Confucian Civil Service

Focus of Education = train Civil Servants = govt. workers A trained civil service = Bureaucracy Candidates were required to pass a test on Confucian ethics Anyone could take it, but only rich could afford the education needed.

Daoism

Founded by Laozi (6 th Century BC) The Dao = “The Way” = universal force that guides nature Harmony comes from Nature = study nature to become one with the Dao = achieve internal harmony.

Daoist Practices

Internal Harmony thru…

–

Tai Qi

–

Traditional Chinese Medicine

–

Astrology

Legalism

Founded by Li Si Order thru strong govt. that provides rich rewards & harsh punishments.

Govt. controls thoughts & actions

The Qin Dynasty

221-202 BC Founded by Qin Shi Huangdi United China under an Autocratic Emperor.

Used Legalism to crush all political & intellectual threats.