152 CultureShock! China
advancing years are a cause for joy and at the same time a
cause for sorrow.’
Confucius concluded, ‘You can be of service to your
father and mother by remonstrating with them tactfully. If
you perceive that they do not wish to follow your advice,
then continue to be reverent toward them without offending
or disobeying them; work hard and do not murmur
against them.’
The final main theme of Confucius’ teachings has to do
with governing. Confucius suggests that virtue in government
will bring out the best in people. He said, ‘Lead them by
means of government policies and regulate them through
punishments, and the people will be evasive and have no
sense of shame. Lead them by means of virtue and regulate
them through rituals and they will have a sense of shame
and moreover have standards.’Daoism (Taoism)
The core concept of Daoism is dao, which means the Way.
The Way is the order of things, the path of life, the life force,
the driving power in nature, the harmony of the universe,
and the eternal spirit which cannot be exhausted. Daoism