Tradition
What is tradition? Tradition, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is "an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior (as a religious practice or a social custom)" [1], but that is not all of it. Tradition, and especially Chinese tradition, is more than just inherited thoughts passed down through a generation, tradition is a culture of ideas one learns through their culture. Tradition differs from continent to continent, and can be the distinguishing factor of an empire. For China, that is the case.
Chinese tradition starts with human endeavor and its main goal: moral order on earth, sustained by virtue, ritual and reverence for ancestors. Thus, the vision of civilization itself depends first on these qualities and obligations, and is expressed through the idea of harmony, yin and yang.
Confucius and Confucianism is the main guiding force for tradition in China. His golden rule of personal virtue and his emphasis on ritual are also the basis of Chinese tradition and civilization. Confucism links tradition to rituals that reenforce relationships and show respect for ancestors. In addition, the written legacy of China is embodied in the Confucian Classics, which became the basis for order of traditional society,
On another note, while the philosophy of Confucianism blossomed out of the respect for tradition ritual, and ancestors, Taoism believed in the exact opposite ideas. To follow the Tao meant to have faith in your individualism and intuition, rather than tradition and the orders of society.
In conclusion, Confucianism is at the heart of China because it stresses virtue and respect for ritual, authority, and most importantly, tradition.
Sources:
Merriam-Webster Dictionary: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tradition
This website is helpful if you would like a more in-depth study of Chinese traditions and culture: http://www.chinese-traditions-and-culture.com/chinese-traditions.html
Manual for Cultural Foundations of Ancient Civilizations. By Rosie Beniretto and Clay Elliott. Vol. 2. Houston: St. John's School, 2012. Print.
-Maddie Shen
