Humanity in Taoism and Confucianism
...gh the patterns and rhythms seen in nature. Society was seen as artificial and interfered with the Tao, so a structured training regimen would upset ones personal harmony with nature. Therefore unlike Confucianism, they are no commandments; instead there are recommendations that can be found in nature. Wu wei, translated as “effortlessness” is a basic principle of Taoism. In nature things happen without planning or unnecessary action. This concept can be adapted to humanity by eliminated whatever is unnecessary and artificial and to appreciate the simple and ordinary. The Tao also teaches gentleness because a wise person embraces peace and restraint and avoids unnecessary violence. Finally, relativity is important to the Taoists. It is important to see past the apparent and limiting dichotomies of good or bad, beautiful or ugly. Taoism teaches that there is more to see, but that you must get past what is obvious. If a person absorbs the practices that bring the person into union with the Tao, they will eventually feel the flow of nature, attain spiritual purity and live a long life. Confucianism is also concerned with the Tao, however the Tao for Confucians more social and rigid. The five virtues, which emphasize a hierarchical doctrine of relationships between family members, elders and juniors, and rulers and subjects is a fundamental principle of Confucianism. It strives to attain ideal relationships. It attempts ...