Buddhism and Confucianism

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that Buddhism and Confucianism are quite different. The author points out that Buddhism believes in reincarnation while Confucianism does not. The paper relates that Buddhism is absorbed with metaphysical things to an extent that Confucianism is not. The author states that, while it does seem engrossed in metaphysical matters, Buddhism is more prescriptive than Confucianism in the sense that it lays down very specific moral precepts as opposed to Confucianism's broad doctrinal principles. The paper further asserts that, while there are some general similarities, there certainly appear to be many more dissimilarities - and there is no question that Buddhism is inward-looking and fixated upon impractical matters in a way that Confucianism is not.

From the Paper:

"Ashby's online article also introduces a number of other interesting details that hint at how the intellectual, philosophical and moral training of a Confucian will differ from the training granted a Buddhist. Chiefly, Confucians throughout time have been motivated by social and/or political concerns, and have immersed themselves in the difficult task of governance. Implicit in all of this, of course, is that young people raised as Confucians have been trained in the cognitive skills needed to assume leadership positions in public life."

Sample of Sources Used:

• About, Incorporated. "Prajna." Buddhism. 2007. The New York Times Company. 9 May 2007 <http://buddhism.about.com/library/weekly/aa110802a.htm>
• Ashby, Michael A. "Confucius and Confucianism." N.d. 9 May 2007 <http://www.shanghai.ws/confucianism/>
• Flesher, Paul V.M. "Buddhism Glossary." Buddhism. 1997. Paul V.M. Flesher. 9 May 2007 <http://uwacadweb.uwyo.edu/Religionet/er/buddhism/BGLOSSRY.HTM#theravada>
• Global Media Outreach. "Confucianism." Handbook of Today's Religions. 2006. Media Outreach. 9 May 2007 <http://www.greatcom.org/resources/handbook_of_todays_religions/03chap04/default.htm>
• Oracle Education Foundation. "Wisdom, Confucius Philosophy." Temples of Confucius. N.d. Oracle. 9 May 2007 <http://library.thinkquest.org/19053/wisdom/main.htm>

More papers on Buddhism and Confucianism:

• Essay # 137899 : "The Development of Buddhism and Confucianism"
• Comparison Essay # 133589 : "A Comparison of Buddhism and Confucianism"
• Essay # 54229 : "Taoism as Differentiated from Buddhism and Confucianism"

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