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Tracing the Pathways: The Geographical Evolution of Confucian Culture in East Asia
- 1 Emma Willard School
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Abstract
Confucianism emerged during significant social and political upheaval in ancient China, known as the Eastern Zhou period (770–256 BCE). The teachings of Confucius (Kong Fuzi or Kongzi) laid the foundation for this philosophical tradition, emphasizing moral values, proper conduct, and cultivating virtues. Confucianism, a philosophical and ethical system originating from ancient China, has exerted a profound influence not only within China but also across East Asia. Since its inception, Confucianism has undergone various transformations and adaptations, influenced by historical events, cultural exchanges, and geographical conditions. The study investigates the geographical evolution of Confucian culture in East Asia to understand its regional dynamics over time better. This research aims to unravel the complex interplay between geographical factors and the development of Confucian thought in diverse regional contexts in East Asia. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on fields such as history, geography, anthropology, and philosophy, this study demonstrates that geographical features, such as terrain, climate, and proximity to other cultures, have shaped the adaptation and transformation of Confucianism in different regions. Additionally, the research examines how Confucian values and practices have been integrated into local cultures and societies, exploring the variations and commonalities across various geographical settings. Ultimately, this investigation contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic relationship between geography and cultural evolution, with implications for our understanding of Confucianism's enduring significance globally.
Keywords
Confucian Culture, Regional Dynamics, Geographical Evolution, Multidisciplinary Approach, Cultural Development
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Cite this article
Yang,H. (2024). Tracing the Pathways: The Geographical Evolution of Confucian Culture in East Asia. Communications in Humanities Research,37,1-13.
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The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study will be available from the authors upon reasonable request.
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Volume title: Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Literature, Language, and Culture Development
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