The document provides an overview of ancient Chinese history and civilization. It describes China's geography and the influential Yellow and Yangtze Rivers. It discusses the Shang Dynasty which ruled from around 1500 BCE, with an agricultural economy and a belief in life after death. The Zhou Dynasty overthrew the Shang in 1046 BCE and introduced concepts like the Mandate of Heaven to justify their rule. Confucianism emerged as a philosophy emphasizing social harmony through rituals and respect for authority. Legalism supported a strong centralized state governed by law rather than morality. Taoism taught living in harmony with nature and non-action.

1. Ancient China

2. River Valley Civilizations

3. Satellite View of China

5. Shang Dynasty: 1523-1028 BCE

10. Oracle Bones

11. Oracle Bones Calendar

12. Evolution of Chinese Writing During Shang

14. Shang Urn

22. Confucianism

25. 1. Ruler Subject 2. Father Son 3. Husband Wife 4. Older Brother Younger Brother 5. Older Friend Younger Friend 5 Principle Relationships

27. Confucian Temple Complex

31. Stones Engraved with Confucius' Life Stories

32. The Tomb of Confucius

35. Legalism

37. 1. Human nature is naturally selfish. 2. Intellectualism and literacy is discouraged. 3. Law is the supreme authority and replaces morality. 4. The ruler must rule with a strong, punishing hand . 5. War is the means of strengthening a ruler’s power. Major Legalist Principles

38. One who favors the principle that individuals should obey a powerful authority rather than exercise individual freedom. The ruler , therefore, “cracks his whip” on the backs of his subjects! Authoritarian

41. 1. Tao [Dao] is the first-cause of the universe. It is a force that flows through all life. [Think of “The Force” from Star Wars – Controversy over the Mystical] 2. A believer’s goal is to become one with Tao ; one with nature. 3. Wu wei --> “Let nature take its course.” --> “The art of doing nothing.” --> “Go with the flow!” 4. Man is unhappy because he lives acc. to man-made laws, customs, & traditions that are contrary to the ways of nature. Major Taoist Principles

42. 1. Reject formal knowledge and learning. 2. Rely on the senses and instincts. 3. Discover the nature and “rhythm” of the universe. 4. Ignore political and social laws. The “Tao" [Dao] To escape the “social, political, & cultural traps” of life, one must:

48. The gravity defying Hanging Monastery was built on extremely sheer cliffs above Jinlong Canyon 1400 years ago.

49. Bridges and corridors connect the pavilions and caves in which dozens of bronze, iron, stone and clay statues are enshrined.

50. The mythical creatures on the eaves serve to protect the monastery from evil spirits.

51. In the Three Religions Hall, Buddha, Confucius and Lao-tsu are all enshrined together. This is because in present day the three faiths co-exist in the temple.

52. Three Chinese Philosophies How is a man to live in a world dominated by chaos, suffering, and absurdity?? Confucianism --> Moral order in society. Legalism --> Rule by harsh law & order. Taoism --> Freedom for individuals and less govt. to avoid uniformity and conformity.

53. What's Your Philosophy of Life?