Step 3: Move Beyond the Basics

To demonstrate a more advanced understanding of the three philosophical traditions that originated during China’s Classical Age, fill in the chart below with descriptions of three key aspects of these philosophies: core beliefs, social and ethical teachings, and vision of politics and public life. What problems and tensions in Chinese society did each of these philosophies attempt to remedy?

Click here to download the exercise for Step 3 in MS Word.

Core Beliefs Social and Ethical Teachings Vision of Politics and Public Life
Confucianism
Daoism
Legalism