Confucius

Confucius (551-478 B.C.) was a Chinese thinker and social philosopher born in Qufu (modern day Shandong province).

Confucius, a great figure in ancient China, lived during the corruption and collapse of the Zhou Dynasty, and formulated a code of ethics and ritual based upon the venerated ancient Golden Civilizations of China. His real name was Kong Fu Zi (the "Zi" character meaning "little one," or "master"), the Latinization of his name occured when the first Christian evangelicals came to China and took a liking to his teachings, and transferred them back to the West. His disciples wrote down his teachings in a book called the Analects, which focus on man's duties to obey a universal natural law through ritual behavior. Moderation in conduct, or "Li", was emphasized, and filial piety (respecting the older members of one's family) was the goal. Age itself is greatly honored in Chinese culture, and the elderly were taught to be venerated. He emphasized rational analysis with a tough of flexibility. He disavowed any original insight or knowledge, and opposed anything egotistical. He is quoted to say, "I for my part am not one of those who have innate knowledge. I am simply one who loves the past and who is diligent in investigating it."

After Confucius died there was an era of the Warring States in ancient China, lasting from 481-221 B.C. During this time period social philosophy thrived amidst the chaos of war and famine, and Kongzi's teachings were criticized by philosophers such as Mozi and Han Feizi, while expanded upon by Mengzi (Latinization: Mencius) and Xunzi, which would be incorporated into governmental policy with the rise of the Han Dynasty.