Philosophies Of China Flashcards
(16 cards)
Li
Conduct of rituals appropriate to circumstances
Ren and Li
Brings harmony, respect and dignity
Rituals
Everything you do has to mean something otherwise it is worth nothing, not worth doing (connected to ren and li)
Dao
The way
- The way by which the universe functions harmoniously.
- you are either in or out of Dao
- one wants to be part of Dao, part of harmony
- if everything is harmonious, then everything is perfect
Tian
Heaven or universe deity
- no personality
- like a force, not a material thing
- DAO AFFECTS TIAN
Yin/Yang
Two energies that make up the universe
- all about finding the right balance
- contains the basics of Chinese medicine
- ones health is mind and body in balanced interaction with each other
What’s one way to bring order?
People must act within their roles
What’s the Ultimate concern?
Bring order and live in harmony within society
Why is Li important to Rituals?
Provides order to society
How does one become one with Dao?
- 1) Reject formal knowledge and learning
- 2) Rely on sense and instinct
3) Discover rhythm of nature
4) Ignore political and social laws
How does relationships relate to Li and Ren?
The relationship is meaningless without Li and Ren
What is Filial Piety?
To respect and support the elders
How do the Confucius people look at death differently than Legalist?
Confucius: grieve because they worship relationships
Legalist: believe it is part of nature, with the flow of life
Five key relationships
1) Ruler/Subject
2) Older Brother/Younger Brother
3) Father/Son
4) Husband/Wife
5) Friend/Friend
ONE PERSON IS ALWAYS SUPERIOR
Personal Characteristics (all people should be)
1) Honest (Integrity)
2) Loyalty
3) Generosity
4) Politeness
Ren
A person’s motivation, display of virtue, sincerity and humanity
