The classical philosophy of ancient China

The philosophy of any country was born at the very core of mythological concepts, and used their material for their own purposes. The philosophy of Ancient China did not become an exception in this respect, however, Chinese myths, in comparison with the mythical images of other countries, have their own unique specifics. As the heroes here are the real golden dynasties of past centuries. A small amount of material represented by Chinese myths, reflecting the views of the Chinese on the interaction of man with the surrounding world, his formation and interaction, does not play a leading role in ancient Chinese philosophy. Nevertheless, all Chinese natural philosophical teachings originate in mythology and primitive religion.

Religion, like the philosophy of Ancient China is unique and unique, it is no coincidence that the two main philosophical trends - Confucianism and Taoism have quite vivid religious premises.

Confucianism

The main role in the history of political and ethical thought was undoubtedly played by the teaching of Confucius, his main ideological views are described by his students in the book "Lunyu yu". For many centuries this book was the most influential tool affecting the mentality of the Chinese people. Confucius preached the patriarchal concept of state power, the state is represented in it as a large family, the emperor is the father, and all relationships are based on the dependence of the younger from the elders. Simply put, Confucius argued for the aristocratic concept of government, while the common people were not allowed to govern the state.

We must pay tribute to the great thinker, Confucius did not call for violence, but urged the ruling class to practice virtue and humility. In his opinion, the basic virtue of subjects is in humility and submission to the government. Confucius was negative about the external achievements of the country, internecine wars and the subordination of his power to other nationalities. At the same time, the philosophy of Ancient China does not reject the importance of legislation, but, apparently, gives it only a supporting role.

Confucianism, immediately after its inception, occupies influential positions in the political and ethical teachings of Ancient China, is proclaimed an official ideology and remains on the rights of state religion. The philosophy of Ancient China does not represent Confucianism as a whole teaching, some of its elements are products of the despotic centralized Chinese state.

Taoism

The philosophy of Ancient China was not confined to Confucian views alone, Taoism was an excellent alternative to it. The focus of this teaching is space, nature and man himself, but the comprehension of these concepts does not take place according to the type of ordinary logical thinking, but with the help of conceptual introduction into the true nature of existence. Its founder, Lao Tan, was a contemporary of Confucius, and Ancient Chinese philosophy, with its views on life, was by no means alien to him.

To date, the Tao is one of the most adequate concepts explaining the ways and origin of everything on the planet. It manifests itself in the history of things, but is not in itself an independent entity, since the Tao has no sources. A person here is defined as a part of nature, he must keep this unity with nature and live in harmony with the world from which he actually appeared. This is the basis of the basic peace of mind and tranquility of man.

Thus, the philosophy of China underwent significant changes at the earliest stages of its development. The search for the meaning of life and the desire to find a place in this world has allowed many of the greatest minds of mankind to leave its unique and vivid trail in history.