Assignment

Question A: DAOISM & CONFUCIANISM. As Fisher states in our textbook, "Individuals often harmonize the apparently opposite characteristics of Daoism and Confucianism in their own lives." In what specific ways might this occur, and why is such harmonious co-existence between these two contrasting religions possible? Might it be fair to suggest that Daoism and Confucianism are, in some sense, the mutually complementary yin and yang of native Chinese religion? If so, how so? If not, why not?

Question B: SHINTO. In what ways might Shinto perhaps share certain elements or characteristics in common with some of the key features of indigenous religions, which we looked at way back in Module 1? Can you identify any specific parallels between Shinto beliefs and practices on the one hand, and those of indigenous sacred ways on the other? By contrast, which (if any) elements of Shinto might seem uniquely or solely "Shinto-istic" in character, not found elsewhere?