The three major philosophies/religions in China are Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism! HOORAY
Confucianism is not a religion, but a philosophy. Founded by K'ung Fu Tzu (botched into "Confucius" by visiting Brits), it teaches basic morality, peacefulness, and ethics. Five relationships are important in Confucianism: ruler-ruled, father-son, husband-wife, older brother-younger brother, and friend-friend. These are all unequal relationships except, obviously, the last one. The main responsibility of a ruler is to be virtuous and set a good example for his subjects. What everyone should strive to be is li, or a gentleman-- someone with a good moral character.
Literally, "Tao" means "the Way". It was founded by Lao Tzu, who wrote the Tao te Ching, or "Book of the Way." Tao is basically concerned with balance, goin' with the flow, groovin' to the beat, not wasting energy, cultivating the Three Jewels (humility, compassion, and moderation), staying healthy, and becoming one with the Tao. However, as Lao Tzu pointed out, the Tao that can be named is NOT the true Tao! ...so basically, it's something everyone has to figure out themselves without having to put it into words.
Founded by Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha ("enlightened one") in India, Buddhism spread to China is pretty major there. Since it has no conflicts with Taoism and Confucianism, there weren't a lot of problems with people accepting it. Basically, Buddhism teaches that life is suffering, and suffering is caused by desire. In order to end suffering and attain nirvana, you must end all desire. Nirvana is NOT a paradise or heaven-- it's simply the highest state of being. Fundamental Buddhism is man-centred-- it doesn't have any deities. Reincarnation is also a Buddhist idea.
Site and contents ©2001 Rachel R***** unless otherwise specified. Best viewed in 800x600 resolution or greater with 16 million colour display. Graphics composed in Paint Shop Pro 6.0.