<p>Conficius’s doctrine was replaced by socialism and communism in China and Vietnam more than 50 years ago. Having a college degree in a communist society did not give high social status. Being a member of the Communist Party was more important. When the Communists took over Asia they condemned the intellectuals influenced by Conficiusism.</p>
<p>Dude, the phase ended decades ago with Mao. I guarantee you the average college graduate is by far more respected than the average communist party member. When my dad got into college in 1979, merely 3 years after Mao’s death, he became famous throughout his entire district, and the status of his family was immediately raised. Same with my mom. Modern Asia is as meritocratic as ever.</p>