Chinese tourists visit the Temple of Confucius in central Beijing November 23, 2008. The temple was initially built in 1302 and is the second largest temple constructed for Confucius. Confucius was one of the greatest philosophers in ancient China, initially influenced by the philosophy of Lao Tzu, who advised a stable civil society based on self virtue and respect. The teachings of Confucius played a key role in imperial times and still play a part in chinese culture today. (UPI Photo/Stephen Shaver) Photo via Newscom