The volumes in the new series Religions of the World surveys religions that have had a major impact on the history of the world and that continue to play a role in relationships between nations and ethnic groups. All aspects--including roots and founding, primary beliefs and cultural activities, the way the faiths are viewed by the rest of the world, and the experience of growing up as a member of the religion--are be examined. Often considered more a philosophy or system of social ethics than a religion, Confucianism has its roots in ancient China. Although today, under the Communist Chinese government, Confucianism is officially outlawed, its moral ideals and emphasis on universal education have helped it retain its influence both in Asia and around the world.