Daoism and Confucianism

Joshua Belmore

February 16, 2017

Daoism and Confucianism

        Daoism and Confucianism are indigenous to China and are two different religions with various beliefs and behaviors. Each religion holds up a different code of ethics, behaviors, and methods of thinking about the world around us.

        One of the big differences between confucianism and Daoism is their primary focus. Confucianism has a strong focus on a persons social role and status. According to Confucius, people are primarily good and a social being, with the ability to be good that leads to social goodness. The most important role of Confucianism is to be a (superior man) which is the ability to do what society expects of you. In Daoism it is not about the earthly fulfillment but to find harmony with the Dao. They both encourage self improvement but Confucianism focuses on the outward accomplishment of the world where Daoism focuses on the inward improvement.

        The teaching of Daoism and Confucianism is about wisdom and taught in very similar way with a teacher or a master but presented in a completely different way.  Confucius writings are question and answers between him and his students. Lao Tzu writings are the main writings that serves as the main text the (Tao Te Ching) for Daoism.  

        The one thing that each religions shares is the principle of self improvement. In Confucianism the individual improves himself through orderly adherence with codes of

behavior and respect for elders, and the reward is achieved strictly in this life. In Taoism, the individual improves himself through contemplation of himself and universal energy, and the reward (while also in this life) is mainly in the next life. The end result of each is self improvement which improves social order and the benefits everyone.