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Confucianism Daoism And Legalism Similarities

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Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism are all Chinese philosophies which instruct/guide rulers and people in how they should behave. Confucianism was developed by Confucius during the warring states period and focused on proper social relationships and conduct. Confucianism generally emphasised education and politeness. Daoism was developed by Lao Zi and focused on harmony with nature and rejected social order. Legalism was a philosophy that gave power to the administration as it gave them social influence of the people. These three branches of Chinese philosophy share similarities, differences, and contradictions with one another, as well with Western religions and philosophies .
Legalism opposes Confucianistic and Daoistic ways in structuring government, suggested by the phrase, “ Past and present have different customs; new and old adopt different measures” (Han Feizi), Confucianism and Daoism represent …show more content…

There should be no resentment in the state” the state in this case can be interpreted as the emperor ( as he is the head of the state) and it unfitting for a government to adopt the rule of treating others how you want to be treated, as they must inflict punishment on individuals and groups that commit crimes(Confucian Analects). Confucianism and Daoism differ in what is humane, within Daoism “Heaven and Earth” and “the sage” are both stated to not be humane while in Confucianism, the master ( who can be interpreted as a sage) states various ways and methods in which one can become humane, indicating that it is attainable to anyone willing to learn. Daoism in contrast to Confucianism tends to focus on more metaphysical concepts to that of Confucianism's social interaction and conducts. Daoism and Confucianism prioritized different things, Daoism focuses on naturalistic elements such as harmonizing with nature and the “force” behind the

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