Confucius, also known as Kung the Master, is referred to as the "first teacher" and as the editor of the Chinese culture (Smith 154).

Some important Confucist ideas are Jen, Chun-tzu, Li, Te, and Wen. Jen represents the ideal relationship that should exist between two people. It is characterized by goodness and human-heartedness. Confucius was an advocate of Jen. Jen is characterized by the "Silver Rule," which holds that you should not do onto others what you do not want done onto you (Note: This is not too far from the Golden Rule). Chun-tzu refers to a superior person-humanity at its best. A person who has chun-tzu is not mean or petty, but respectful and humble. Confucius believed that people with chun-tzu could help lead the world to peace. Li is the way things should be done. Confucius sought to show people this concept through patterns and ideas that already existed such as savoir faire (remaining graceful no matter what the circumstance) and esprit ("the right feel for things"). Te is the power by which men are ruled. Confucius believed that if the people trust and respect their leadership, then they are more likely to follow obediently. Wen is the "arts of peace," which include music, art. poetry, and other such things that contribute to culture (Smith 172-179).

http://acc6.its.brooklyn.cuny.edu/ ~phalsall/ images/confucb.gif

Heaven and Earth are not merely places, but instead, are the people who dwelled there. The ancestors who were governed by a supreme ancestor were in Heaven. Heaven looks out for the Earth's well being, and in return the Earth gives to Heaven through ritual sacrifices. Those in Heaven have a greater authority over those on Earth. (Smith 184-186)

Confucianism was very important to Chinese culture. Many Chinese leaders followed Confucianism and in 130 B.C. Confucian writings were used to educate government officials (Smith 187).

According to Richard Foltz, Confucianism was used by Kublai Kahn to deprive the Chinese of their spiritual support (125).

Foltz, Richard. Religions of the Silk Road. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1999.
Smith, Huston. The World's Religions. New York: Harper Collins Books, 1991.