Confucianism

Confucianism is an ethical and philosophical system developed from the teachings of Confucius (Kong Qiu, 551–479 BCE), one of the most influential figures in human history. Originating in the Spring and Autumn period of ancient China, Confucianism became the dominant social and political philosophy of Chinese civilization for over two thousand years, profoundly shaping the cultures of Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and East Asia as a whole.

The core of Confucian thought centers on the cultivation of virtue (de), the practice of humaneness (ren), and the maintenance of proper relationships (li). Confucius taught that social harmony begins with personal moral development—when individuals cultivate themselves through study, self-reflection, and ritual propriety, families flourish, communities thrive, and the state is well-governed. The "Chinese Classics" include The Great Learning, The Doctrine of the Mean, The Analects, and The Works of Mencius, forming the canonical Four Books that shaped Chinese education for centuries.

Confucianism emphasizes the "Five Relationships" (ruler-subject, parent-child, husband-wife, elder-younger, friend-friend), each with reciprocal obligations. The ideal of the Junzi (noble person or gentleman) represents someone who embodies benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faithfulness in all aspects of life.