Confucianism and Daoism (Taoism), the two major indigenous religions of China, present worldviews that contrast not only with Western thought, but with each other. Each belief system centers on the concept of the Dao, or the Way. The goal of religious self-cultivation is to follow the Way, or to be oriented properly and moving in the right direction. This distinguishes them from Christianity and Buddhism, which both propose a finish line that one may cross.
However, Confucianism and Daoism have very different understandings of this Way. Confucian teachings seek to ground individuals in society by ritual propriety, that is, the observance of behavioral norms. Confucian thinkers promised that the ritualization of daily life would make followers more authentically human, leading to a society that flourished. Daoists saw society as enveloped within a larger natural world that presented a Way encompassing all things. For them, "attaining the Way" meant transcendence and immortality. The two traditions have often been at odds, though individuals could find it possible to embrace both visions.
Charles Jones, a professor of religion and culture at Catholic University of America, explores the basic teachings of the two traditions and their strategies for coexistence throughout Chinese history.
Patron Information
- If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
- Unless otherwise noted, registration for online programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
- Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
- Separate Zoom link information will be emailed closer to the date of the program. If you do not receive your Zoom link information 24 hours prior to the start of the program, please email Customer Service for assistance.
- View Common FAQs about our online programs presented on Zoom.
