I would not say that Confucianism is similar to Enlightenment philosophy, because Confucianism came first. It was an influence on the Age of Enlightenment after the Dark Ages. During the Dark Ages in Europe, people in general were not considered to be of any real importance, unless they were part of the ruling or priestly class. Unfairness and inhumanity were the order of the day, with widespread ignorance held in place by exploiters of the people.
Then the human-based ideas of Confucianism began to take root as European travelers returned from China or Chinese made their way to Europe. They brought with them the Confucian idea that that people are the foundation of the country. Confucianism brought the idea of “Governance with virtue” instead of by force.
“Governance with virtue” means that men of great virtue and talent are elected who will cultivate mutual trust and promote universal understanding. There will be nationwide education for everyone without distinction. Confucianism destroyed the idea that reading and writing were for the privileged few. Therefore, it underplays Confucianism to say that it is similar to the Age of Enlightenment. It is the foundation of it.
Then the human-based ideas of Confucianism began to take root as European travelers returned from China or Chinese made their way to Europe. They brought with them the Confucian idea that that people are the foundation of the country. Confucianism brought the idea of “Governance with virtue” instead of by force.
“Governance with virtue” means that men of great virtue and talent are elected who will cultivate mutual trust and promote universal understanding. There will be nationwide education for everyone without distinction. Confucianism destroyed the idea that reading and writing were for the privileged few. Therefore, it underplays Confucianism to say that it is similar to the Age of Enlightenment. It is the foundation of it.
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