What really caught my attention and gave me a belief in Buddhism was
"The Everything Buddhism Book" and any book by Jack Kornfield. I suggest you read up on those if you are curious. As for Confucianism and Taoism IDK sorry
Confucianism (China) is more etiquette rules than anything, and honoring traditions. Taoism (China) is all about being yourself and going with the flow, with the belief that when that happens things work themselves out the way they should be, and we don't waste energy with excess friction. Buddhism (India then China and all over Asia) started around the same time as the other two (500 B.C.E) and is a branch off of Hinduism. The Buddha chose the middle path instead of the life of the ascetic and it focuses mainly on avoiding suffering by getting rid of excess desires. If we don't want something it won't bother us when it doesn't happen. I think most of us could use that philosophy at least a little. We get upset in America if we don't have the newest phone and the best jeans. We have so many unnecessary desires that cause us suffering.
But they are religions. Just because they don't fit your concept of religion doesn't mean they don't fit another person's.
Confucianism deals with ethical behavior on a societal level; a strong family unit is the cornerstone upon which a community is built, and a community builds a village, villages build nations, nations make up the world....
The Tao is nameless and cannot be defined. Think of it as a metaphysical law of nature that keeps everything in balance and harmony. Taoists practice living a simple life, and believe that life is good if you go with the flow of the Tao rather than struggle against it. It is often compared to a river. The source book, the Tao Te Ching, is a very short book.
Buddhism has many sects, but the very basic premise is the end of suffering and the encouragement of loving kindness, and to seek enlightenment by walking the Eightfold Path which addresses wisdom, action, morality.
Taoism and Buddhism can be read about at http://www.thebigview.com and Confucianism as well as the others at http://www.religioustolerance.org/confuciu.htm
You seem to like religious tolerance org. When you go there -
seek Dadaji. An unsung teacher who takes a lot of myth out
of all religions.
You can also find Him by searching for Ann Mills. She has built his web site. Another man is using the title "Dadaji"now. So some confusion has crept in. Free books to down load there also.
Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism?
