Confucianism was one of the most important aspects in Chinese life from 100BC to AD1900, influencing areas like education and the government, and governing personal behaviour and the individual's duty to society.

Confucius was born into a poor deposed noble family during the eastern Zhou dynasty. His moral system is based on empathy and understanding. It centred around three concepts, namely li or 'ideal action', yi or 'righteousness', and ren or 'human compassion or empathy'.

According to Confucianism, a good orderly life can only result from a well-disciplined society that stresses on ceremony, duty, morality, and public service. Confucius taught the value of lead by example, and believed that strong familial loyalty, ancestor worship, respect for elders, and the family unit form the basis of good government.

One of his sayings, known as the 'Golden Rule', states that “a man should practice what he preaches, but a man should also preach what he practices”. His beliefs were later spread throughout China by his disciples, and many people learned from his wise sayings.