Taoism Vs. Confucianism: Comparative Eastern Influences Response

Background: A comparison of two Eastern philosophies; Taoism and Confucianism.Taoism vs. Confucianism

Moore & Bruder (2005) state that, much of our knowledge of Taoism philosophy comes from Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, Lao's follower. According to the text, Confucianism was founded by Confucius (551-479 B.C.E.). "Confucian political philosophy has dominated Chinese life in a way unequaled by any similar philosophy in the West" (Moore & Bruder, 2005, p. 510). While Lao Tzu and Confucius respected each other's differing philosophies, they also tried to persuade each other to take their side.

"Confucius sought to become an advisor to a ruler and directly to change society for the better, using heroes of the past as models" (Moore & Bruder, 2005, p. 503). According to the text; Tzu's vision to change society was very different than Confucius. Moore & Bruder (2005) state that, Tzu's ideas are used to gain power and stay in power. However, there are various ways one might look at Taoism. According to the text, Lao Tzu believed as did Greek Philosopher Socrates that a person with great wisdom can still be found to be uninformed. "And to act on that ignorance under the pretense that it is knowledge, both held, is folly that leads not to progress and betterment within the individual and society but to the opposite effect" (Moore & Bruder, 2005, p. 503). Tzu felt that Confucianism was lacking here, proposing solutions without wisdom.

Moore & Bruder (2005) state that, Tao is like an empty dish that embraces energy (ch'i) in every single thing. "In contrast to Confucius, who believed that the Tao can be improved on Lao Tzu believed that the Tao cannot be improved on" (Moore & Bruder, 2005, p. 504). One quotation that reveals Tzu's insights is: "To pretend to know when you do not know is a disease" (Moore & Bruder, 2005, p. 504). Lao Tzu philosophies were insightful but seem judgmental in context. Let's take a look at Confucianism and compare.