Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism are considered the “<u>three pillars</u>” of ancient Chinese society.
As <u>philosophies</u> and <u>religions</u>, they not only influenced spirituality, but also government, science, the arts, and social structure.
Though their specific beliefs and teachings have occasionally been at odds with each other, there has been much room for overlap.
Instead of one tradition taking over and pushing the others out, the three philosophies have influenced society alongside each other, changed each other, and at times blended together.
Understanding the unique interplay between these three traditions gives <u>great insight</u> into <u>ancient Chinese society</u>, as well as modern times.
