The Shaping of Chinese Traditions

1. The Shaping of Chinese Traditions

2. China’s landscape • Plains • Vast desert • Spread of these deserts • Dust storms northern China

3. The Philosophers… • As in India-thinkers pondered human nature • Hindus and Buddhists –cycle of reincarnation • Chinese philosophers focused on this world-sought to establish a stable, orderly society

4. Confucius • Most influential Chinese philosopher-born 551 BC- • Lived during a time of great turmoil in China-constant warfare • Violence and moral decay troubled him-he suggested a code of conduct based on high moral ideas.

5. The Confucian Code of Conduct • A good society preserved peace and order • His code of conduct stressed virtues such as loyalty, courtesy, hard work and kindness-these virtues would contribute to social harmony.

6. 5 basic relationships • Define everyone’s place in society- • Ruler and subject • Parent and child • Husband and wife • Older/younger brother • Friend and friend • Each individual has responsibilities and duties=order

7. Impact of Confucianism • Unlike Hinduism and Buddhism-Confucianism is not a religion • The goal of Confucius was NOT the soul’s salvation-rather-order in society. • Chinese Law based on Confucian principles-respect for elders dominated family life.

8. European Imperialism in China • The Chinese had restricted foreign trade at Canton-Euros had to pay w/gold/silver-the Chinese had no interest in Euro goods • Had to obey Chinese customs-Euros agreed-made $

9. Sphere of Influence • By the 1800’s western powers had carved up China into spheres of influence- an area in which a foreign nation has special economic privileges.

11. New Philosophies • When Chinese Communists gain power-replace old Confucian traditions with new revolutionary traditions

12. Social Changes • Classless society • Weaken the family-respect for elders-now faith in the young • New marriage laws • Family size • Changing role for women • Emphasized education

13. China’s economy • In modern era, China's influence in the world economy was minimal until the late 1980s • Since 1978 hundreds of millions have been lifted out of poverty : the poverty rate as fallen…However, many people still live on less than $1 a day. Since).

14. China and pollution • According to the Chinese Ministry of Health, industrial pollution has made cancer China’s leading cause of death. • Every year, ambient air pollution alone killed hundreds of thousands of citizens. • 500 million people in China are without safe and clean drinking water.

15. Water Pollution • half of the population lacks access to clean drinking water • Water scarcity also is an issue;