Confucianism - Essay Example

Integration of Confucianism in U.S. education system Confucianism is a philosophical or ethical system that has been developed over centuries. The ideologies developed are righteousness, filial piety, loyalty and kinship as most essential factors in the social and political well-being of a given society. These teachings were developed by a Confucius, a prominent and influential Chinese philosopher (552 – 479BC). The teachings, developed during the “spring and autumn era” where conflicts and great chaos occurred, were meant to determine the most appropriate way to maintain order within the society as well as strengthening the governance system.
According to Confucius, a good governance system should have high respect for traditions and age, encourage group efforts, and appreciate hierarchy of control and morality. He acknowledged the need for social harmony and orderliness of social activities. This would only be achieved if every person acknowledges his social rank and behaves according to his rank. This is based on his phrase “A place for everyone and everyone in his place”. In this regard, Confucius developed an interdependent relationship structure that had lower rank individuals give obedience to their colleagues in the higher ranks. In addition, he also introduced a horizontal relationship system characterized by great trust between family members and friends. This led to great regard of age and authority in the society (Yong, 18).
Integration of the Confucianism in the education system would ensure that students highly respect age and authority, strengthen their family and friendship ties; ensure politeness within the society (Yong, 18). Secondly, Confucianism advocates for “collectivism” that is evidenced in the modern Chinese society today, compared to “individualism” of the western society. Group membership and collective operation of individuals is usually in terms of their families, their community, clan and ultimately their nation. This ensures modesty and humility. If integrated in the U.S. education system it ensures that students learn the importance of humility and social responsibility resulting to the well being of the entire society (Yong, 18).
Confucianism additionally holds high regards scholarship knowledge, integrity and education. The meritocracy resulted to introduction of written imperial examination system. Anyone who proved worth and passed this examination was allowed to be a government official. Confucius’ philosophy on education was that social harmony would be achieved if availed to all people irrespective of their financial backgrounds (Yong, 19). This led to introduction of state system of education where all students were able to get admission from private schools.
Unlike the western schools, the students would learn more on classical materials and not expected to demonstrate mastery of subject matter, ability to theorize or challenge a given premise. Integration of Confucianism I the U.S system also provides all students with an opportunity to acquire same levels of education, and also ensures everyone has an equal and fair opportunity to succeed in life (Yong, 19).
In conclusion, there exist several success stories that associate economic growth and development on countries that have adopted Confucianism. These countries include Singapore, Japan, South Korea Taiwan and Malaysia. Additionally, Vietnam has achieved fast re-development, despite facing Vietnam War a few decades ago. However, U.S. education system should put into consideration criticisms of Confucianism like gender discrimination oppression of women (Yong, 19).
Work cited
Yong, Chen. Confucianism as Religion: Controversies and Consequences. (2012). Print.  Read More