Together Apart: Freshman Colloquium

Attitudes toward Education in Ancient Chinese Philosophies

Isabella Griggs


Abstract

The fundamental values of Confucianism, Taoism, and Legalism vary drastically from one another, as do their approach toward education. Confucianism grounds its beliefs in Humanism, highlighting the importance of being a morally "superior man," developed through continued access to education. Taoism encourages non-interference of the natural order of life, meaning that education should be through "doing" and experiencing rather than studying. The strict laws of Legalism demand the rejection of formal education altogether. This paper explores how the fundamental philosophical values influence the thought systems’ attitudes toward education, and examines the benefits and drawbacks of each.

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