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5 Great Relationships in Confucianism

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5 Great Relationships in Confucianism
5 Great Relationships in Confucianism Confucius believed that a perfect society was one where each member of society would be protected and taken care of. A society where no one felt abandoned. He believed that each person had a social role and that this type of society could be achieved if people played their roles properly. In Confucianism there are 5 great relationships. They are father-son, elder brother-younger brother, husband-wife, elder-younger and ruler-subject. Confucius believed that no matter how big the family or society that if everyone were to follow and obey their roles that everyone in that particular family and/or society would be harmonious.
Father-Son
In Confucianism, the first and most important relationship is the father-son relationship. In the family unit the father is the key figure and it is his responsibility to be a good example to his sons. It is also the duty of the son to be respectful and obedient and is responsible for the care of his dad in his old age. The father-son relationship can be extended to include parent/child relationships as well as employer-employee relationships. There is a term that is used in Confucianism called Filial Piety. Filial Piety is one virtue that is held above all else and that is a respect for the parents and ancestors. Filial Piety means to be good to one 's parents and to take care of one 's parents. It also states that one should engage in making good choices outside of the home to be a good representative of the family. This relationship of obligation works both ways and doesn 't end until the death of the father. Elder brother-Younger brother The next relationship is the elder brother-younger brother relationship. This relationship is important in Confucianism and there is a distinct difference between the two kinds of brothers. The elder brother must take care of his younger brother and it is the responsibility to give respect to him. Another way to explain the



References: Confucianism. (2010, March 24). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 05:01, May 4, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Confucianism&oldid=351695454 Terry, L.E. (2005, September 7). Confucianism 101. Retrieved from http://www.googobits.com/articles/p3-2508-confucianism-101.html Zukeran, Pat (2002, July 14). Confucius. Retrieved from http://www.leaderu.com/orgs/probe/docs/confucius.html

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