Confucianism stresses the importance of one’s character and the well-being of others. It is no secret that Confucius believed his teachings might help build a “harmonious society” in precarious China. According to the reading, Confucianism had a positive effect on China because it restored social and political equilibrium. From the Shang Dynasty forward, Taoism had a major impact on Chinese culture. The evolution of the arts reflects people’s awareness of their position in the world and their responsibility to one another, which expresses the idea that everything and everyone is interconnected.
The institutional framework of Taoism was also inspired by Buddhism, which the Taoists subsequently imitated and changed. Because of the rivalry that developed between Buddhism and Taoism to acquire more adherents and political clout, both faiths became more vibrant as a result. Buddhist ideals blended with Taoist and Confucian principles as they spread, and this formed the foundation for ancient Chinese society and governance. Art, architecture, and literature all bear witness to their presence.