Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Confucius says...

Ever wonder how some Asian cultures have clear roles for how people should behave in society? Confucianism permeates throughout many of the East Asian cultures and influences other parts of Asia as well. Confucius was a scholar/philosopher in China who believed in social order. For example, children should respect their elders and citizens should respect authority figures. This has implications for filial piety (see more on this idea in a future posting) and being a law-abiding citizen.

Confucianism also has an impact on how gender roles are played out in (East) Asian societies. Ever heard of the law of three obediences? As a girl, females are expected to follow their fathers. As an adult, females are expected to follow their husbands. In their later years, females are expected to follow their sons. This means that a patriarchal society will value male opinions more in order to maintain social hierarchies.

No matter whether or not you agree with Confucianism, one can not argue the vast influence this school of thought continues to have on Asian (American) societies. I welcome your thoughts on this matter.