Introduction
In Chinese society, Confucianism and governance are intertwined such that the two are dependent on each other. We cannot discuss governance without involving some principles that are associated with the Confucian system in China. While the Chinese people are extremely religious, they are also known to be politically clued-up. Examining the Confucian characteristics involves examining the Chinese political setup by extension. Confucianism influences the entire cultural habits in China. This essay demonstrates that the Chinese culture is based on Confucian principles which include filial piety, loyalty to the government, and proper behavior.
Confucianism is a social system
Confucianism is a culture guided by certain principles and not a religion. This culture was created during the autumn and winter era when there was a conflict in China. Confucius was the author of the Confucian philosophies. Prior to his philosophies, he had noted that there were numerous conflicts arising among humans. These conflicts led him to think of amicable ways of managing society to restore law and order. The Confucian system was therefore created to enhance filial piety, kinship, as well as loyalty. These principles govern the ways of men in terms of behaviors. For instance, it outlines how gentlemen should behave in different situations such as while eating. Other than building social characteristics, the system also outlines leadership skills to direct rulers and shows them how to govern with benevolent concerns.
Confucian principles
The fundamental principle in Confucianism is to restore order and harmony in society. Confucius divided humanity into different ranks and argued that harmony would be achieved if every human being understood their rank in life. According to Confucius, the world would be a better place if every person was aware of the best behavior in his/her rank. This is the essence of filial piety. The principle of filial piety dictates that every human should respect his or her elders, parents, and ancestors. By understanding our ranks and the behaviors expected of us, there would be fewer conflicts amongst human beings. In the same way, he also believed that it would be tragic if people were not behaving with respect to the regulations set for their respective ranks in life.
Chinese culture
Confucianism created a structure whereby those in lower ranks in life give reverence to those in higher ranks. This structure is accepted in the family setting as well as in governance. Consequently, the Chinese tend to be more respectful to authority than other cultures in different regions of the world. Their culture is principally shaped by Confucian ideologies. For instance, it is biased and selectively egalitarian. Only the people with the same rank on the social ladder have equal rights. The Chinese revere the culture of hierarchy and social differences. In other modernized countries, the culture of upholding authority is gradually fading away. However, the Chinese people are still holding on to it. In other countries like the United States, people from different social ranks can interact freely but in China, it is culturally wrong.
Conclusion
In most cases, Confucianism is wrongly interpreted or seen as a religion. This essay has however established and argued that contrary to this assumption, Confucianism is a social system meant to create harmony and order. To prove its claim, the essay has outlined the core principles and rationales passed on by Confucius to his followers. In conclusion, the paper also displays the Chinese culture and how it is influenced by Confucian principles. This essay is therefore a clear study focusing on the Chinese cultural characteristics with respect to Confucianism.