Comparison between Confucius and Lao Tzu Research Paper

Comparison between Confucius and Lao Tzu - Research Paper Example The teachings associated with Confucius can be considered as concepts of human activities and they contain five fundamental messages. The initial message demonstrates two key components which are Zen and li. The concept of Zen points toward humanity and benevolence while li addresses rules and decorum. According to Confucius, li was the greatest manifestation of Zen despite the fact that Zen is attained through li. This means that the capability to abide by rules and decorum was the most favorable way to display respect and regard to the authority figure and the environment inhabited by individuals. The second message associated with the teachings states that an individual who is honest and decent should obey the authority and avails a set of morals for people in authority. These two mechanisms demonstrated the opinions held by Confucius concerning the framework of the state as well as the manner in which the community is organized socially. The third message carries Confuciusâ€℠¢ warning to human beings against possessing anything that will make their characters become extreme. Confucius perceives the center as being the most favorable position for an individual. The fourth message addresses issues of power and Confucius considers that it should be based on the ideology of justice. In essence, he blended the ideas of power and justice into one concrete formation. The final message argues that the human beings have to be completely involved and realistic to the religion they confess.