Refers to the philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, often discussed in historical or ideological contexts.
During the Edo period, Confucianism became the foundation of samurai morality.
儒教 is the general term for Confucianism as a religion or philosophy, while 儒教主義 emphasizes the ideological or doctrinal aspect, often used in academic or historical discussions.
Compound of 儒教 (Confucianism) and 主義 (doctrine, principle). The term is a direct translation of the English 'Confucianism' as a systematic ideology.