Chinese Philosophy

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Joshua J. Mark
by
published on 05 April 2024

Ancient Chinese Philosophy developed during the Spring and Autumn Period (c. 772-476 BCE) and the Warring States Period (c. 481-221 BCE) in ancient China. This was the era known as the Hundred Schools of Thought, referring to many different philosophical schools active at this time, not just 100 of them.

There were ten major and four minor schools that emerged from this time as the most popular. The following collection focuses on three of these: Legalism, Confucianism, and Taoism. Buddhism, which is considered both a philosophy and a religion (as is Taoism), is omitted as it did not develop from the Hundred Schools of Thought.

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Questions & Answers

When did Chinese philosophy develop?

Chinese philosophy developed during the Spring and Autumn Period (c. 772-476 BCE) and the Warring States Period (c. 481-221 BCE), the era known as the Hundred Schools of Thought.

Why is it called the Hundred Schools of Thought?

The Hundred Schools of Thought refers to many different philosophical schools, not just 100 of them, which developed between c. 772-476 BCE and c. 481-221 BCE in ancient China.

Which Chinese philosophical schools became the most famous?

The best-known Chinese philosophical schools are Legalism, Confucianism, and Taoism. Buddhism, regarded as a religion and a philosophy, is equally famous.

Which philosophical school was most influential in ancient China?

Confucianism was the most influential philosophical school of thought in ancient China.
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About the Author

Joshua J. Mark
Joshua J. Mark is World History Encyclopedia's co-founder and Content Director. He was previously a professor at Marist College (NY) where he taught history, philosophy, literature, and writing. He has traveled extensively and lived in Greece and Germany.

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