JWACA2025-001: The True Face of Confucianism and Its Characteristics

Abstract

This article explores the essence of Confucianism as a social development theory rather than merely a religion or ethical philosophy. It argues that Confucianism addresses the challenge of scarcity in agrarian economies through moral cultivation, self-restraint, and ritual propriety. The core concepts include "xiaokang" (moderate prosperity), "datong" (great harmony), and "tianxia weigong" (the world belongs to all). The article identifies three key characteristics: emphasis on innate human goodness and self-cultivation, prioritization of family and kinship, and supremacy of moral values over utilitarian interests. The article also acknowledges Confucianism's limitations, including constraints on individual personality, potential weakening of rule of law through excessive emphasis on human relationships, and insufficient checks on public power.