The Priority of Family over Justice: A Reflection of the Impact of the Cultural Revolution in China from the Perspective of Confucian Familism

Classical Confucianism stresses the priority of filial piety and family relationships over justice. In particular, Confucius’ emphasis on the importance of mutual concealment of wrongdoings among family members was generally criticized as corruption, violating the idea of universal justice and leading to a paradoxical conclusion. However, for Confucianism, the family is of paramount importance not only to one’s self-cultivation but also to the establishment of social order. The reflection on the impact of the Cultural Revolution in China also brings us insights into the Confucian emphasis on the importance of family relationships. I argue that the destruction caused by the Cultural Revolution was partly due to a weakening sense of Confucian familism. A strong sense of Confucian familism can ensure social stability and prevent social turmoil in radical political situations. This chapter will also explore the boundaries regarding the priority of family relationships over justice.