Roleplaying the Chinese Philosophies Confucianism Taoism Legalism Click here to navigate to the History with Mr. E Social Studies Store! Click here for I Can Statements and Logs! Click here to integrate math, map, and geography products! Click here for Interactive Student Notebooks!
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Acting, Drawing, and Researching the 3 Chinese Philosophies! Confucianism, Taoism, Legalism 1.) Students should be grouped in teams of 3. It is better, in my view, to make 2 groups of 2 than 2 groups of 4. 2.) All groups will receive reading for one of the 3 Chinese Philosophies (Confucianism, Legalism, Taoism). These documents are included. 3.) Students are to read as a group. 3.) Within each group, students should decide on what role they want. This can actually be decided upon before teams begin reading OR before they even get their topics. The three roles are Historian, Developer, Thespian. These can also be given randomly - 1 s are Historians, 2 s are Developers, 3 s are Thespians. Here are summaries of each role:! 1.) Historian: After team reads as a group, Historian makes a detailed "outline"!! of the chapter that was read.!!! I: Founder!!!! a.!!!! b.!!! II. Teachings!!!! a.!!!! b.!!!! c.!!! III. The Influence!!!! a.!!!! b.!!!! c.! 2.) Developer: Should make a "visual aid" to help the class remember the!! teachings of their philosophy. Copies will be made and classmates!! will receive them.! 3.) Thespian: Should create a "skit" where three group members will perform,!! highlighting the founder of their philosophy, what the philosophy is "all!! about" and what influence it had.! Students should plan on bringing!! props from home. 4.) Once teacher has checked the Developer, give them a smaller cut out of paper (included) to transfer the image over. Once this is finished, glue all of the classes on a blank piece of paper and make copies for the whole class! 5.) Have groups present their findings!
Name: Period Historian Directions: After reading with your group, make a detailed outline of your Chinese philosophy. Only include the most essential details! When you are finished, review your outline with your team and ask them for suggestions! Philosophy: I: Founder! a.!!!!! b.!!!! II: Teachings!! a.!! b. c. III: The Influence!! a.!!!! b. c.
Name: Period Designer Directions: After reading with your group, make a picture that displays the important thoughts of your philosophy. This is a rough draft. Once you have your draft finished, raise your hand and I will check it. If I approve, you then will transfer your drawing to a smaller piece of paper that will passed out to all of your classmates! Philosophy:
Name: Period Thespian Directions: The word thespian translates to actor or actress. Your responsibility is to create a skit that your team will act out. Your top priority is to make your skit show the important thoughts of your philosophy. In the space provided, create a script that your team will follow. Ask yourself, How can my team show what this philosophy was like?
Confucianism Confucianism Confucianism Confucianism Confucianism Confucianism
Taoism Taoism Taoism Taoism Taoism Taoism
Legalism Legalism Legalism Legalism Legalism Legalism
Confucianism Confucianism is an ethical and philosophical system based on the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius. This system has come to play a large role in Chinese government and in everyday life. In fact, today, Confucius teachings have influenced much of eastern Asia, such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Today, it is estimated that around 5 million people follow the teachings of Confucius. What are the roots of Confucianism? Confucius, also known as Kong Qiu, was a Chinese teacher, politician, and philosopher who was born in the year 551 B.C.E. A poor and humble man most of his life, Confucius devoted his life to study at the age of fifteen. In his twenties, Confucius became a respected teacher and traveled throughout China to educate the sons of the noble class. But, Confucius saw problems everywhere in Chinese society; land was divided among feudal lords, the morals of the people were in decay, and respect for longstanding Chinese traditions were slowly fading. "...those who preside over the people should cherish the dearest aims and give the most correct lessons, honoring the requirements of humanity by loving the people as their sons; then the people will use their utmost efforts to please their superiors." To fix China s problems, Confucius knew that reforms had to start from the government and work their down to the people. Confucius dreamed of one day serving as an advisor to a powerful ruler. He believed that, by giving the right advice, he could create an ideal world in which to live. In 501 B.C.E., there was an opening for the governor of a small town in the state of Lu, and Confucius saw this as an opportunity to influence the change he wanted to see in the world. Confucius had built up a strong reputation through his teachings, and administrators of the Lu state began to take notice. He was appointed to this position and quickly rose the ranks to higher public offices. Confucius service had a great impact on Chinese government. Above all else, Confucius believed it was essential to hire men who were honest, fair, and of good character to government positions. But, what exactly did Confucius teach? generosity - the quality of being kind and demonstrating a willingness to give to others What are the teachings of Confucianism? Confucius was quick to explain that his teachings were not a religion, but rather a set of principles on which to live. Li, the first principle, stated that people should show courtesy and respect toward others, especially one s elders. The second principle, Jen, represents the heart of Confucius teachings. Jen emphasizes the need to show concern for others. No matter their rank in society, Confucius stressed that everyone should be valued and respected for what they have to offer. The third concept, Chun-Tzu, is the idea of the true gentleman. Chun-Tzu states that all people should live according to the highest standards. People must have self-respect, and show generosity, sincerity, and kindness toward others. If all people would live by these three principles, Confucius believed, then all of China would be ruled by harmony. (continued on other side)
What are the teachings of Confucianism? To make this easier for people to understand and follow, Confucius encouraged people to recognize the five relationships in the world. In each relationship, Confucius said it was essential to pay respect and obey those above you. In return, those with authority have a special obligation to set a good example for how to live. In addition to the five relationships, all people must respect their elders. Here are the five relationships that Confucius said govern the world. Can you determine who would be above in each relationship? Circle the one that you think it would be! (continued from other side) 1.) ruler and subject 2.) husband and wife 3.) father and son 4.) older sibling and younger sibling 5.) friend and friend Children owe a duty of obedience to their fathers, and men to their rulers. However, this is a reciprocal obligation. The father had a responsibility to his children, and the ruler to his subjects. He must put their interests first. obligation - an act that someone feels morally or legally bound to do What influence does Confucianism have on government and modern life? Confucius teachings played a large role in how the Chinese government would operate under the Han Dynasty. Specifically, the teachings influenced how civil servants, or government workers, would be chosen. Instead of being 2304 chosen red through diamonds special rule or inherited privileges (as was before Confucius), prospective applicants would now be chosen based on their abilities. The civil service examination was a method to hire qualified men in order to fill the thousands of government positions that were needed to run the empire effectively. Men had to show proficiency in music, arithmetic and horsemanship, as well as have an understanding of civil law, taxation, and geography. By the year 1370 C.E. the exams proved to be effective; during the Ming Dynasty, around 47% of those who passed the exam were from families who had no connections to the emperor. Today, Chinese culture still stresses many of the same Confucian values that were first stressed in this time. In fact, a handful of schools in China are returning to a more traditional approach and are teaching Confucian values. The Analects of Confucius, which are a collection of sayings and ideas written by Confucius, are required reading in many early college courses. Confucian values have permeated Chinese society with the value placed on pride, honor, and the importance not to lose face. To lose face means to lose honor and respect, and no Chinese wishes to be put in that position. Today, many societies have a sort of golden rule which can also be traced back to Confucius. Typically, this rule is translated to mean something along the lines of: Treat others the way you wish to be treated. It was Confucius who said, "What you do not wish for yourself, do not do to others. Quick Question: What problems will a government have if only friends and family are rewarded with the government jobs? permeate: to spread throughout
Taoism Taoism, also spelled Daoism, is an ethical and philosophical tradition based on the teachings of the Chinese philosopher and poet Laozi. While the Chinese government has tried to suppress Taoism throughout history, the teachings of this philosophy have remained strong. Today, Taoism is practiced mainly in two countries: China and Taiwan. It is estimated that around 20 million people follow the teachings of Laozi, and most followers practice Taoism in conjunction with Confucianism. What are the roots of Taoism? Laozi, also known as Lao-Tzu, was a Chinese philosopher and poet who was born in the year 604 B.C.E. in the province of Henan, China. Henan is in north-central of modern day China. Much of Laozi s life is a mystery as so little is known about him. As a young adult, Laozi held a government post as the Keeper of the Archives at the Zhou court. This position gave Laozi access to China s greatest classics, and he became very well versed in Chinese philosophy and other famous works of literature. Laozi s access to these materials encouraged him to share what he learned to others. Slowly, Laozi gained a group of followers who enjoyed hearing his take on these famous works. Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like. Over time, Laozi became troubled by what he saw throughout China s empire; he recognized that the empire around him was falling into despair. Corruption was everywhere, and Laozi grew weary of the moral decay he witnessed among the Chinese people. After a spiritual awakening, Laozi quit his government job and decided to leave the empire altogether. According to Chinese legend, Laozi rode a water buffalo to the western frontier and disappeared forever. But, just before he left the empire, Laozi was stopped by a sentry at China s western border. It was here where Taoism was born. Yinxi, the guard stationed at the western gate, recognized Laozi and ordered him to stop. Before he could pass, Yinxi asked Laozi to record his wisdom into a book to better help China s future generations. This book would go on to be called the Tao Te Ching, and it would form the basis of Taoism. sentry - a soldier stationed to keep guard or to control access to a place Like Confucianism, Taoism is not a religion but rather a set of principles that seek to guide one s life, choices, and behavior. In the end, Taoism teaches a way of life that is based around harmonious living. However truly understanding Taoism can be a difficult chore. In fact, Laozi recognized this when he stated how it is impossible to truly define Tao: The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao. Taoism is based around the Tao, or translated to mean The Way or The Path. The Tao is the basis of all living things, it governs all of nature, and it is a method by which to live. To truly understand what Tao is, one must come to understand the four main principles of Taosim: oneness, balance, cycling, and harmony. What are the teachings of Taoism? (continued on other side)
What are the teachings of Taoism? (continued from other side) The four principles of Taoism are: 1.) Because the Tao is the essence of all things, nature and the observer of nature are one. The Tao creates all things and ends all things. This is called oneness. 2.) Life and nature are always in constant balance. This is best symbolized by the yin and yang; white balances black just like lightness balances darkness and the heat is balanced by the cold. This is called balance. 3.) Just as life is always in balance, it is also in constant cycle. The sun is replaced by the moon just as the moon is then replaced by the son. Too, death will be replaced by new life. This is called cycling. What influence does Taoism have on government and modern life? Taoism had great influence on a variety of dynasties and emperors since the time of Laozi. However, the first organized Taoist movement saw opposition during the Han Dynasty. A rebellion known as the Five Pecks of Rice Rebellion eventually led to a separate Taoist state in China known as the Zhang Han state, but it was only temporary. Taoism became more popular and accepted during the reign of the Tang Dynasty in the 8th and 9th centuries B.C.E. In fact, many emperors claimed that Laozi was a distant relative. The glorification of Laozi continued into the 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries with the establishment of the Song Dynasty. Song emperors were very active in promoting Taoists teachings and philosophy. But, by the time of the 18th century Taoism had fallen out of favor. 4.) Life is constantly changing and will present unknown circumstances. It is important to be flexible. Imagine a piece of grass in the wind. It overcomes the wind because it yields to it. If it were too stiff it would break. This is called harmony. Today, Taoist culture still thrives throughout modern day China and Taiwan. In China, Taoist priests, known as daoshi, continue to study the teachings and works of Laozi. Too, many Taoist traditions and values are still visible in Chinese culture. Not only is the yin and yang still an iconic image, but many of the martial arts are rooted in Taoist tradition. Feng shui, or the process of harmonizing one s home or office by rearranging furniture to help with energy flow, is also of Taoist origin. iconic - relating to the nature of an icon; something that is easily recognizable Can you read Laozi? Try your best to explain what Laozi was talking about in this quote! Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you. The yin and yang represent the constant balance that exists in nature. Also, the principle of cycling is apparent. Can you see it?
LEGALISM Legalism is a philosophy that followed a very different path than that of Confucianism or Taoism. All three of China s philosophies sought to create a peaceful and harmonious society, however Legalism presented a radical departure. This Chinese philosophy was created by a man named Han Fei (or Han Feizi). Other than a brief stint with Emperor Qin and the Qin Dynasty, Legalism as a whole was not a successful political philosophy in ancient China. What are the roots of legalism? The origins of Legalism are unclear; this philosophy was created from a variety of different ideas that influenced Chinese emperors as early as the 7th century B.C.E. However, it was Han Fei who compiled the various strands and created what we know as Legalism in the 3rd Century B.C.E. It is dangerous for a ruler to trust others. He who trusts others can be manipulated by others. Early in his life, Han Fei became very knowledgeable on Confucian teachings. His teacher, Hsun-tzu, was a devout Confucianist as well, and he taught Han Fei that people could be guided toward goodness. He stressed to Han Fei the importance of kindness, respect toward elders, and generosity toward others. However, according to popular belief, Han Fei was dismayed by what he saw in the world. People were morally corrupt, communities were being ravaged by outsiders, and individuals were hurting their neighbors to gain an advantage in the world. Han Fei believed something had to change. Han Fei s attitude toward human nature started to shift; he was convinced that people were naturally evil and only acted in ways that would promote their self-interest. If given the chance, Han Fei claimed, people would betray their neighbor if it meant they themselves would go free. To sum it up, Han Fei believed that humans were inclined toward criminal and selfish behavior. It was in this environment that the philosophy of Legalism was born. Unlike Confucianism or Taoism, Legalism did not seek to answer questions about the purpose or nature of life. Instead, Legalism argued that in order to create a peaceful society, there had to be an emphasis on strict obedience to laws. People were so bad, and so evil, that a strong government needed to enforce strict laws. If the government did this, Han Fei believed, the people would fall in line. Han Fei believed that a ruler needed to follow three simple steps in order to be effective. The three steps are law, method, and legitimacy. What are the teachings of Legalism? First, Han Fei said the law code must be clearly written and posted in public for all to see. The law should reward those who follow it, while it should severely punish those break it. Punishments should be severe and must be enforced. Han Fei stressed that the law is what should run the state, not the ruler. If the law is successfully enforced, a weak ruler will instantly be a strong one. This is law. (continued on other side)
What are the teachings of Legalism? Second, Han Fei stated that rulers should take special precautions to make sure others do not seize control of the state. Rulers should be hard to figure out and their actions cannot be predictable. No one should be able to know the rulers true motivations for his decisions because they may seek to use this to their advantage. This is called method. Finally, rulers must understand that it is the position of the ruler that holds the real power. Rulers must strictly enforce laws to protect the position and reinforce their legitimacy to rule. Also, civil servants who do poor quality work should be punished. This further commands the (continued from other side) authority of the ruler. This is legitimacy. civil servant - a person working for the government Legalism became popular for only a brief moment in China s history, during the Qin Dynasty in the 3rd century B.C.E. In fact, Han Fei was poisoned by a former classmate, Li Si, who helped the Second Qin Emperor gain the throne. Ironically though, Li Si was executed since Legalism also taught that no person 2304 could red escape diamonds punishment rulefor a crime. The emphasis on punishing even minor violations encouraged Qin rulers to maintain a civilian-led mutual surveillance system over one another. What influence does Legalism have on government and modern life? While Legalism was eventually discredited and failed to play a significant role in later dynasties, many still believe that Legalist ideals have emerged in mainstream Chinese politics. For example, in 1973 Chairman Mae Zedong launched an aggressive campaign against his political opponents. In the campaign he identified himself with the first emperor of China, Emperor Qin, perhaps the most strict adherent of Legalist thought. Forms of Legalist torture?...a fortunate offender would only lose his ears......for capital punishment (death penalty) they would use the cut and kill method. The body would be divided into a number of pieces (or cuts) based on the crime... 8, 24, 36, 72, or even 120 pieces...the jailer would start with the eyebrows, then the feet, hands, the arms, the legs, and finally the heart...the more the cuts means the jailer starts with smaller body parts, the purpose to make the criminal suffer longer "Only an intelligent ruler is capable of applying heavy punishments to light offenses. If light offenses carry heavy punishments, one can imagine what will be done against a serious offense. Thus, the people will not dare to break the laws." - Han Fei...limbs would be broken and forced to heal in awkward positions......some would be sentenced to hard labor for life...some had their names and crimes tattooed on their face...
Three Chinese Philosophies try to find in. Confucianism Daoism Legalism Founder: Founder: Founder: - Deeply respected traditions - Asked to a book of his Gave very answers for as he left China. how to achieve a - Wanted to teach men of good to work honestly and fairly - There are 5 in the world: Ruler and and wife and son older sibling and friend and - - All people must respect those above them! - In order to gain, people must live in and in line with. - Life is full of like: Life and Light and Beauty and Pain and Live like nature! Nothing strives for or society Believes peace comes from having a and government. People are People cannot rely on each other to make society peaceful! Rulers should make laws with very punishments to keep society peaceful! Rules should have power! - People in power must set a good example for how to live! - Influences Dynasty to hire based on ability People should take comes at them and it in stride. People who out against the were often to far away lands The Dynasty strongly adopted Legalist views
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