Confucius

Confucius

The history of Chinese civilization spans thousands of years and encompasses
countless ideas, beliefs, and societal and political doctrines. However, from a
modern standpoint one distinct perspective prevails above the rest in the manner
and degree it has influenced the development of China. For the previous 2,000
years the teachings of Confucius, and the systems of thought and behavior that
have evolved from them, have had significant effects on Chinese thought,
government institutions, literature and social customs. Confucianism has served
a primary role as a social and moral philosophy and as practiced by many,
especially in the educated upper classes, Confucianism had definite religious
dimensions. The teachings of Confucius served to unite a developing society,
binding together various aspects of civilization and culture into one coherent
body that functions under common values and attitudes. Confucius sought a type
of all encompassing unity for the world and for his people; his wisdom was
intended to serve as guide. In the Analects, a compendium of Confucian
teachings, Confucius said, Be of unwavering good faith and love learning. Be
steadfast unto death in pursuit of the good Way. Do not enter a state which is
in peril, nor reside in one in which the people have rebelled. When the Way
prevails in the world, then show yourself. When it does not, then hide. When the

Way prevails in your own state, to be poor and obscure is a disgrace; but...

Confucius

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