• So philosophical teachings about how to lead a principled life became
adapted to spiritual practice, and seen as upholding religious belief
systems.
• While the Three Teachings thus became intertwined with philosophical
systems, China has maintained a long humanist tradition or secular
tradition.
• Humanism is not the same as religion. Humanism means an outlook in
which human experience rather than divinity is the main focus.
• So a philosopher could be a humanist, and be interested in principles of
conduct in everyday life. A humanist philosopher can also be religious, but
that is not necessary, because they will be mostly focused on human life.
• A religious rather than humanist perspective would entail paying attention
to gods or other supernatural powers, and their divine rules for human
conduct.