Who among the following great teachers of Asia emphasised the doctrine of the "Five Relationships" in society?

Introduction / Context:
This question is based on Eastern philosophy and ethics. The "Five Relationships" form an important part of a moral and social system that influenced Chinese civilisation and other East Asian cultures for centuries, guiding behaviour within family and society.

Given Data / Assumptions:
• The doctrine of "Five Relationships" belongs to Chinese ethical thought. • It outlines proper conduct between different pairs of people. • We are asked to identify which teacher or philosopher stressed this doctrine.

Concept / Approach:
Confucius, the Chinese philosopher of the sixth–fifth century BCE, developed a system of ethics based on harmony, respect and proper roles. He emphasised five key relationships: ruler–subject, father–son, husband–wife, elder brother–younger brother and friend–friend. By fulfilling duties within these relationships, Confucius believed social order and harmony could be maintained.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that the "Five Relationships" are part of Confucian thought, not Buddhist or Jain philosophy. Step 2: Recall that Confucius focused on ethics, family duties and respect for elders. Step 3: Compare each option with this Chinese context. Step 4: Lao-tse is linked with Taoism, Buddha with Buddhism, Mahavira with Jainism and Zoroaster with Zoroastrianism. Step 5: Select "Confucius" as the philosopher who stressed the Five Relationships.

Verification / Alternative check:
Textbooks on Eastern religions and philosophies list the Five Relationships as a core element of Confucianism. They are repeatedly used as examples of how Confucian thought organises social life. No other major Asian teacher in the options is associated with this specific five-fold relational scheme, confirming Confucius as the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option Lao-tse: Founder of Taoism, which emphasises harmony with the Tao and naturalness, not specifically the Five Relationships. Option Gautama Buddha: Taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, focusing on ending suffering. Option Mahavira: Central figure in Jainism, stressing non-violence and asceticism. Option Zoroaster: Prophet of Zoroastrianism in ancient Persia, unrelated to Chinese social doctrines.

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent error is to mix up Lao-tse and Confucius because both are Chinese figures. A helpful memory trick is to remember that Confucius deals more with social ethics and formal relationships, while Lao-tse focuses on the mystical Tao and living simply. Since the question mentions specific social relationships, the correct association is with Confucius.

Final Answer:
Therefore, the teacher who emphasised the doctrine of the "Five Relationships" is Confucius.