<P> Confucianism was founded in ancient China by Confucius (551 B.C.E. - 479). Confucianism is a complex of moral, social, political, philosophical, and religious concerns that permeated the culture and history of East Asia . Confucianism emphasizes family, social hierarchy, and personal integrity and is manifested in practices and attitudes rather than institutions and is centered on the family and local society . It was, however, considered the state religion of East Asian countries in some periods . Today the Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Vietnamese diasporas have brought Confucianism to all parts of the world . </P> <P> Taoism (also romanized Daoism) is a diverse philosophical and religious tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (also romanized "Dao"), a term that means "way", "path" or "principle". The concept is shared with other Chinese philosophies and religions . In Taoism, however, Tao denotes both the source and the driving force inherent in everything that exists . It is ultimately ineffable: "The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao ." </P> <P> Laozi is traditionally regarded as the founder of Taoism and is closely associated with "original", or "primordial", Taoism . Whether he actually existed is commonly disputed; however, the work attributed to him--the Daodejing--is dated to the late 4th century BC . </P> <P> Taoist propriety and ethics vary according to the particular school, but in general tends to emphasize wu - wei (action through non-action), "naturalness", simplicity, spontaneity, and the Three Treasures: compassion, moderation, and humility . </P>

In order from earliest to latest these major religions originated in or influenced south asia