RELI 100 Midterm: Confusianism, Taoism, Plains Indians Study Guide

• School: George Mason University
• Department: Religious Studies
• Course: RELI 100
• Professor: dakake

Document Summary

Study guide confucianism, taoism and the plains indians. Define the exoterism/esoterism distinction and give examples of this distinction, particularly in regard to the traditions of confucianism and taoism. Exoterism was the outward aspect of something, whereas esoterism is the inward aspect of something. Some religions are geared more one way or the other, depending on their beliefs. Confucianism is much more exoteric they don"t really care as much about what you think or where you are spiritually, but there are certain acts that you much accomplish. For example, the profound person, or superior man, was one who did was what right at all times no matter what. While taoism is much more esoteric, they believe that your mind needs to be in the right place. You must be separate from the world and you should not assert yourself, but just let the tao take its course of your life.