Difference between Taoism and Confucianism

Confucianism and Taoism are two of the most popular philosophies or ideologies that are followed even today, not only by the number of native Asian followers, but also by many other people around the world.  Difference between Taoism and Confucianism

While they have some religious elements in common, the two philosophies seem to contradict each other at first glance. However, looking at it differently, between these two ideologies, methodologies of human thought seem to intertwine with respect to everything; which leads to certain defined codes of conduct.

Regardless, the two philosophies differ in some ways. First of all, Confucianism is more earthly. As such, it focuses on the social aspect of man and his everyday life. As Confucius, who proposed Confucianism, said, philosophy is inherently the social creature that has the capacity to be good. You become superior if you behave in the way that society expects to stay in harmony.

Taoism  Difference between Taoism and Confucianism

Taoism is different, because it goes beyond this world. The main idea of ​​this philosophy is to embrace the Tao (the greater reality that is made up of the universe and everything else). It also focuses on the relationship of the person with himself to achieve inner harmony. Therefore, it is good to say that in Confucianism the person achieves self-improvement by relating to his immediate external environment, while Taoism proposes that this improvement is achieved from oneself; that is to say, internally.

Confucianism

Another element of distinction is the methodology by which these philosophies convey their lessons. In Confucianism, classes are usually transmitted from the teacher to the students in the form of dialogues. As you might expect, most Confucian teachings consist of question and answer sessions between the students and the teacher. But through each dialogue a unique teaching is obtained. Taoism, on the other hand, is taught directly through the writings of Lao Tzu (also called Lao Tzu). The main manuscript of Taoism is the “Tao Te Ching.”

Differences between Taoism and Confucinanism

1. Confucianism focuses more on earthly life, while Taoism looks at life beyond this world.
2. Taoism works more with the individual, while Confucianism usually takes into account the relationship of the individual with their environment.
3. The teachings of Confucianism are usually transmitted through dialogue, while in Taoism they are based on the writings of Lao Tzu.
4. Confucianism was developed by Confucius, while Taoism arises thanks to Lao Tzu.