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Although not practiced as a religion, Confucianism
from China has deeply influenced Japanese thought. In essence,
Confucianism is the practice of proper forms of conduct, especially in
social and familial relationships. It is derived from compilations
attributed to the fifth-century B.C. Chinese philosopher Kong Fuzi or Kongzi
(Confucius; in Japanese, Koshi). Confucian government was to be a moral
government, bureaucratic in form and benevolent toward the ruled.
Confucianism also provided a hierarchical system, in which each person was
to act according to his or her status to create a harmoniously functioning
society and ensure loyalty to the state. The teachings of filial piety and
humanity continue to form the foundation for much of social life and ideas
about family and nation. - To know is to know that you know
nothing. That is the true meaning of knowledge.
- It does not matter how slowly you go as
long as you do not stop. Confucius
Neo-Confucianism, introduced to Japan in the twelfth century, is an
interpretation of nature and society based on metaphysical principles and is
influenced by Buddhist and Daoist ideas. In Japan, where it is known as
Shushigaku (Shushi School, after the Chinese neo-Confucian scholar Zhu
Xi--Shushi in Japanese), it brought the idea that family stability and
social responsibility are human obligations. The school used various
metaphysical concepts to explain the natural and social order. Shushigaku,
in turn, influenced the Kokutai (national polity) theory, which emphasized
the special national characteristics of Japan.
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