Key Concepts in Confucianism and Taoism
What is the Idea of Jen (Ren)?
Interalogy and Filial Piety
- Interalogy–the relationships between things; filial piety (Hsiao/Xiao) is the root of Ren
- Relationship with others and the natural world– interconnectedness
- Foundation of everything in the universe
- What is its significance for the whole teaching?
- Embody goodness in one’s relationships with others
- Respecting elders; loyalty to your parents; unconditional love and care from child to parents
- Humanity (not the best translation) — human-heartedness
John Henry Newman: A Journey of Faith and Conversion in the 19th Century
John Henry Newman: Pastor and Pioneer
Early Life and Influences
Born in 1801 into a family seeking better opportunities, John Henry Newman’s life would be marked by significant change and spiritual exploration. His father, a banker with liberal religious views, and his devout mother, Jemima Fourdrinier, provided a contrasting backdrop for his upbringing. Newman, the eldest of six siblings, displayed intellectual prowess from a young age.
Anglican Priest
Teenage years brought hardship for Newman, with
Read MoreUnderstanding Religious Phenomena: A Multifaceted Exploration
Understanding Religious Phenomena
A Multifaceted Exploration
Introduction
Religions have profoundly shaped human history and culture. Understanding their impact is crucial, leading to extensive study across various fields of knowledge.
The Rise of the Positive Study of Religion
From the latter half of the 19th century emerged the positive study of religion, also known as the science of religions. This approach focuses on describing religious phenomena without making value judgments.
Branches within the
Read MoreExploring Nature, Poetry, and the Emersonian Legacy in American Literature
Nature and the Poet: Exploring Emerson’s Vision
Chapter 1: Nature
Nature, as described by Emerson in Chapter 1, represents true solitude. By immersing oneself in nature and leaving behind societal concerns, one can achieve a connection with the sublime. Gazing at the stars, for example, reminds us of the perpetual presence of the divine. Emerson emphasizes the importance of approaching nature with a balance of inner and outer senses, allowing us to experience awe and rejuvenation. He suggests that
Read MoreThe Evolving Relationship Between Israel and the Jewish Diaspora
Is Israel Losing the Jewish Diaspora as a Foreign Policy Tool?
Relevant Arguments
Historically, there was an unspoken agreement that the Jewish Diaspora would support Israel’s actions on the world stage. Two decades ago, most financial support for Israel flowed directly to the Israeli government through official fundraising campaigns. Donors essentially gave the Israeli government carte blanche to use the funds as they saw fit.
However, the last two decades have witnessed significant changes. Today,
Read MoreThe Rise and Fall of Great Empires and the Evolution of Religious and Scientific Thought
Unit 5: Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism in China
I. China’s State-Building Tradition
China boasts a long state-building tradition dating back to the founding of the Zhou dynasty. The subsequent breakdown into the chaotic “Age of Warring States” (403-221 B.C.E.) made the quest for order a pressing concern.
Legalism
- Han Feizi, a prominent Legalist philosopher, believed that strict rules, clearly defined and enforced, were the solution to disorder.
- He held a pessimistic view of human nature, asserting