Comparing and Contrasting Confucianism and Legalism
Robert Lin 11/19/12
Goldsmith Rm 311 Comparing and Contrasting Confucianism and Legalism
During the late Zhou Dynasty in China, war and social changes were disrupting the old ways
of life. In order to restore social order, philosophers like Confucius developed Confucianism and
Hanfeizi created Legalism. These philosophies have benefited China’s society and many beliefs
were used in future generations. Both Confucianism and Legalism influenced the lives of its
followers and the society in which it was practiced by developing contrasting and similar
beliefs, laws for a government, and educational knowledge. As a result, these two
philosophies brought a stable and organized society. Both Confucianism and Legalism influenced the lives of its followers and the society in
which it was practiced by developing contrasting and similar beliefs. For example, Confucius
stressed the five key relationships to bring harmony and peace. These relationships include:
father to son, elder brother to younger brother, husband to wife, ruler to subject, and friend to
friend. According to this belief, people were to fulfill their duties. An example would be an elder
brother setting an example for a younger brother and in return, the younger brother owed loyalty
and obedience. Confucius also stated to respect your parents and everyone else, including
yourself. Hanfeizi insisted that
Goldsmith Rm 311 Comparing and Contrasting Confucianism and Legalism
During the late Zhou Dynasty in China, war and social changes were disrupting the old ways
of life. In order to restore social order, philosophers like Confucius developed Confucianism and
Hanfeizi created Legalism. These philosophies have benefited China’s society and many beliefs
were used in future generations. Both Confucianism and Legalism influenced the lives of its
followers and the society in which it was practiced by developing contrasting and similar
beliefs, laws for a government, and educational knowledge. As a result, these two
philosophies brought a stable and organized society. Both Confucianism and Legalism influenced the lives of its followers and the society in
which it was practiced by developing contrasting and similar beliefs. For example, Confucius
stressed the five key relationships to bring harmony and peace. These relationships include:
father to son, elder brother to younger brother, husband to wife, ruler to subject, and friend to
friend. According to this belief, people were to fulfill their duties. An example would be an elder
brother setting an example for a younger brother and in return, the younger brother owed loyalty
and obedience. Confucius also stated to respect your parents and everyone else, including
yourself. Hanfeizi insisted that