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6. Confucianism

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Type: Ethical and philosophical system, not strictly a religion. Founded by Confucius (Kong Fuzi) ~500 BCE in China.
Core text: Analects (collected sayings of Confucius)
Central teachings: Filial piety (respect for parents and ancestors), ren (humaneness), li (proper ritual and conduct), social harmony through right relationships
Five Relationships: Ruler to subject, father to son, husband to wife, elder brother to younger brother, friend to friend. Each carries reciprocal duties.
Political significance: Foundation of the Chinese civil service exam system, which selected officials by merit (in theory) based on mastery of Confucian texts. Spread throughout East Asia (Korea, Vietnam, Japan).

Geography in 1750: China, Korea, Vietnam, parts of Japan. Defined the social fabric of Qing China.