Culture is fascinating!  Culture is fascinating! Did you know that Confucian beliefs still influence how some Asian countries view hierarchy? Over 2000 years ago, Confucius prescribed principles of good conduct, practical wisdom, and proper social relationships. His ideology helped influence Asian attitudes toward life and provided the background for Chinese political theories. There were many things that Confucius taught and many ideals that he upheld. He believed that if each individual acted according to his place in society, there would be order and social justice. One way to accomplish this is outlined in what is known as the Five Relationships:          Ruler is greater than Subject          Father is greater than Son          Husband is greater than Wife          Older brother is greater than Younger Brother          Friend is equal to Friend These relationships encouraged total reciprocity: obligation from the top and loyalty from the bottom. But the rare and most prized relationship is the one that is equal. How does this impact our interaction with Asian counterparts, superiors, subordinates, customers or suppliers?  Global LT’s Cultural Training Programs - Hierarchy in Asia