Qing family instructions, morality and education : ideal and reality

Abstract

This thesis discusses the following aspects in Qing clan rules: role models, clan identity moral order in a family, household management, career development, study habits and punishment. The values Qing families imparted to children in clan rules include filial piety, obedience to the dominant, diligent study, choosing socially acceptable occupation, marrying someone who would benefit the clan, female's chastity, mutual help between clan members, observing imperial laws and respecting the ancestors. Individual's behaviour that would maintain or improve the clan's interests was regarded as virtuous, while behaviour that endangered the clan's survival or reputation was viewed as wrong. Clan rules reflected certain aspects of Qing social and political life, but my research identifies a gap between ideals upheld by Qing clan rules and social reality reflected in related historical materials, such as legal documents and local gazetteers. Referring to all key components in effective moral functioning, including the ability to distinguish right from wrong, the desire to make the best moral decisions, and the demonstration to act accordingly, it is concluded that the gap between ideals of Qing clan rules and social reality was constituted by family-centred ethics, hierarchy, utilitarianism and formalism in clan rules. Clan-based morality and hierarchy failed to model a respectful attitude toward the feeling, opinion and rights of women, children, servants and clan outsiders, which violated social justice and was immoral in itself. Utilitarianism could skew the moral decision process. Punishment was relied on to constrain clan members' misbehaviour and could make proper behaviour drift into ostensive conformity. These four flaws could undermine the effectiveness of moral education of Qing clan rules. Show more