Confucianism and politics

Confucianism emphasizes moral virtues like respect, honesty, and filial piety to promote social harmony. In politics, it advocates for leaders who are virtuous and serve as moral models, encouraging a well-ordered society through ethical governance. Rather than relying solely on laws, Confucianism stresses personal integrity and proper relationships—such as ruler and subject—to maintain stability and harmony. Historically influential in Chinese governance, it continues to influence ideas of moral leadership and societal cohesion, emphasizing that political stability depends on the virtue and moral example of those in power.