In USA, we often hear about this term and how it drives East-Asian culture, but most of us never learn about it. Thus, I thought I would try to attempt to explain what Confucianism is to my friends and family out there in the world. (Note, before I begin, see my future posting on Neo-Confucianism, which is a religion, while Confucianism is a philosophy)
Confucianism to put it simply is a philosophy about social order, individual behavior, and a form of governance. People police each other and desire to conform to the will of society. Everyone in this system should follow their leaders, who in turn through their benevolence will give to their followers.
Personally, I have mixed feelings about this belief. I am fascinated by the philosophy, but I strongly believe in this one quote by Lord Acton: “Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely”. History is riddled with kings and leaders that have served their own self interests at the expense of the public. Thus, the system ultimately fails, as the power given by the people would corrupt the leader.
However, in Japan, the culture follows along the path of Confucian concepts whether they realize it or not. There’s a strong since of collectivism, that is consideration of others and society over yourself. I do not see any form of strong policing force; I’m guessing one is not needed as pretty much people police themselves. If people violate the social norms in Japan (and also in Korea), there will be extreme consequences as violators will be alienated by their peers. This is the cause for suicide in both countries in earlier and modern times. The Japanese life here is predictable, orderly, and comfortable. You always know what to expect from others, as everyone adheres to strict social rules.
