The Role of Confucianism in Chinese Culture Essay

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Role of Confucianism in Chinese Culture

The Five Great Relationships

Confucius identified five key relationships required for the smooth functioning of society and government. The first relationship identified must exist between ruler and subject characterized by benevolence and loyalty. In essence, the ruler must be generous and kind to his subjects who return the 'favor' with loyalty. The second ideal relation is that of the father and son characterized by and loving and reverence. Ideally, the father was expected to teach the sons kindness and sons were taught to be dutiful and obedient to their fathers. The relationship between husbands and wives in the third category would require good/listening. From a marriage perspective, the husband was expected to be good to his wife who would reciprocate with obedience. The relationship between the elder brother and younger brother would require gentleness and respect. Elders would be expected to be considerate towards their juniors who later show some respect in return. The last great relationship in the Chinese culture was that of an older friend and a younger one where they would be considerate/deferential. Confucius saw the bond between parents and children being the most important relationship for the family to function smoothly.

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The Chinese society demanded respect from children to be accorded to parents, ancestors, and relatives. The loyalty also applies to empires where citizens are expected to be loyal to their emperors. Hence, this leads to the smooth functioning of the society and government due to the harmony that is present in families (Legge, 2010).).

The Ideal Person to Act

Confucius held the opinion that junzi would be the ideal person to be considered as the definitive noble human being. It is from young age that the junzi is taught virtue, and hence the principles become inborn. Diligence, faithfulness, compassion, and modesty are some of the virtues. Junzi is an impartial witness and thinks critically, which implies that he is educated. However, he never uses this knowledge to offend or insult and always is accountable for all mistakes committed. His following tends to be a special set of etiquette guaranteeing the existence of proper relationships; his behavior is simple but dignified. His regard to the Five Great Relationships relating to respect to the hierarchical relationship that Confucius established. He also lives by the five distinct virtues and the first one is represented by Ren. According to the West,….....

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