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How does Neo-Confucianism view the concept of filial piety?
Neo-Confucianism, also known as the "New Learning" or "New Confucianism," emerged in China during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE) as a response to the growing influence of Taoism and Buddhism. It sought to revive and synthesize Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist ideas, creating a new philosophical and ethical system that would guide individuals in their personal and social lives.
One of the central concepts in Neo-Confucianism is filial piety, which refers to the respect and devotion that children owe to their parents and ancestors. This concept has its roots in Confucianism, as filial piety was emphasized in the teachings of Confucius, the founder of Confucianism. However, Neo-Confucianism expanded and refined the concept, incorporating elements from Taoism and Buddhism.
In Neo-Confucianism, filial piety is seen as the foundation of a harmonious society. It is believed that when individuals fulfill their duties towards their parents and ancestors, they will also fulfill their duties towards society and the state. This idea is based on the Confucian belief that the family is the basic unit of society, and a strong and harmonious family is essential for a stable and prosperous society.
One of the key principles of filial piety in Neo-Confucianism is the idea of reciprocity. Children are expected to show filial piety towards their parents, who have sacrificed and cared for them, and in turn, parents are expected to show benevolence and care towards their children. This reciprocal relationship is seen as the basis of a harmonious family and society.
In addition to showing respect and care for their parents, Neo-Confucianism also emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's duties towards one's ancestors. This includes performing rituals and ceremonies to honor and remember them, as well as maintaining their tombs and ancestral tablets. By honoring and remembering their ancestors, individuals are seen as carrying on the legacy and values of their family and contributing to the continuity of the family line.
Furthermore, Neo-Confucianism also incorporates the Taoist concept of the "three bonds," which refers to the relationships between ruler and subject, husband and wife, and parent and child. In this way, filial piety is not only seen as a duty towards one's parents, but also as a virtue that extends to other relationships in society.
In summary, Neo-Confucianism views filial piety as a fundamental principle for a harmonious society, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship between parents and children and the importance of honoring one's ancestors. It is a concept that combines elements from Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, highlighting the synthesis of ideas in this philosophical and ethical system.