The Chinese philosopher whose philosophies gave rise to Confucianism - a method of social ordering - in the sixth and fifth centuries BC. Confucius, who aimed at establishing models for society and for individuals, promoted inner enlightenment and the cultivation of the self. Confucianism, with its central concept of jen which is translated as love or virtue, dominated about 2,000 years of Chinese history. Another important concept is li - which covers everything from behavior to rites. Confucius opposed the religious practices of his time, although some of his policies, such as his attitude to heaven, are seen as religious.
