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The As A System Of Government That Impacts The Values And Interpersonal Relationships Of Its Citizens Essay

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Every society has a system of government that impacts the values and interpersonal relationships of its citizens. This can be founded on either religious or philosophical doctrine. A few famous examples are Christianity in the Western world, and Confucianism in the East. The latter transcends religion, for Confucius teachings influence daily interaction between people on every level of society. More significantly, it demands a hierarchy within families that centers on expressing respect for the male head of house. In order to better understand the role Confucianism plays in eastern society, it is crucial to examine its history and core values. Originating in China between the years 551 and 479 BC, Confucianism grew under the influence of Kong Qiu, who focused his teachings on filial piety (loyalty to the family) and respect to elders or those of higher station. This meant that children would respect their parents (namely their father), a wife would respect her husband, and adults would support their parents in their old age. There are five relationships that Confucius emphasized as the most central. They included: father-son, emperor-subject, husband-wife, young-old, and friend-friend. It is noticeable that three out of five can be included or is exclusive to the family dynamic. Filial piety not only meant giving respect to elders and family, but it also implied a sacrifice of self. To do what was best for the family and to think as a unit rather than an

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