Daoism and Confucianism should be considered religions because of their belief system, ethical practices, and spiritual ideologies. Though both religions seem to follow that of an ethics system, within lies core principles and practices that reflect what defines religion. Ming-Huei Lee explains it best, towards Confucianism, “different from modern Western humanism and distinguishes Confucian religiousness from the “Abrahamic religions,”but it marks Chinese religiosity as being profoundly unique.”(Lee, 37)
Daoism and Confucianism both utilize systems of belief revolving around moral and cosmological concepts. “Dao”, or “Tao”, means “the eternal principle underlying the universe”, placing importance on the concept of “Yin and Yang”. This concept explores the natural balance of order, opposite forces that are interconnected. Confucianism offers a somewhat similar perspective by maintaining a focus, as well, on harmony, morals, and unification. Confucius crafted the formalization of the religion through his teachings and dedication. Both religions stress an importance on moral, social, and ethical principles.
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In Daoism this concept circulates around the Dao, an attempt to reach eventual union with the cosmos and universe. Confucianism does not reflect this concept to the same degree but still maintains the idea that spiritual cultivation will lead to unification and moral perfection. The use of these values drives both religions, offering people something more than what they have and to be able to grow as individuals through