Confucianism is a philosophy of living rather than a religion and may guide one's life while one practices other religions without contradiction. It is concerned with principles of good conduct, practical wisdom, and proper social relationships. Confucianism is a major system of thought in China , developed from the teachings of Confucius and his disciples.

Confucius is considered as a great philosopher and a great sage of China . He was born at Qufu in the state of Lu what is now Shandong Province , in about 551 BC. He lived at the end of the Spring and Autumn period, in which the ducal states of the old Zhou Empire were fighting for supremacy, and the resulting chaos led many thinkers to search for fundamental principles of social order and harmony. Confucius moved from one state to another attempting to convince rulers of the right way to govern their states.

Confucianism has influenced the Chinese attitude toward life for thousands of years. It set the patterns of living and standards of social values, and provided the background for Chinese political theories and institutions. Confucianism views the family as the basic unit of the society. Certain reciprocal relationships and responsibilities must be observed to preserve harmony.

The thought of Confucianism are contained in nine ancient Chinese works which were handed down by Confucius and his followers. The nine works are usually divided into two categoris, namely, the Five Classics (Wujing) and the Four Books (Sishu). The Five Classics include the Classic of Changes (Yijing), Classic of History (Shujing), Classic of Poetry (Shijing), Classic of Rites (Liji) Spring and Autumn Annals (Chunqiu). The four books include the Analects of Confucius (Lunyu), the Great Learning (Daxue), the Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong), and the Book of Mencius.

The core of Confucianism is "Ren", and is always translated as "love", "benevolence", "humanity" and "human-heartedness." Ren is a supreme virtue representing human qualities at their best. Other important Confucian virtures include righteousness (Yi), Propriety (Li), and filial piety. One who possesses all these virtues above can be considered as a Junzi (perfect gentleman). In politic, advocated a paternalistic government in which the ruler is benevolent and honorable and the subjects are respectful and obedient. In education, Confucius is considered as the "Teachers of Ten Thousand Years". He was the first person in Chinese history that put forward the idea of "In education, there is no class distinction."