Final answer:
Confucius was the founder of Confucianism, a philosophy that has influenced East Asian society for over 2,000 years. However, he is not considered the principal deity of Confucianism.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, the statement that Confucius was the founder of Confucianism and its principal deity is false. Confucius (551-479 BCE) was indeed the founder of Confucianism, a philosophy that has had a significant impact on East Asian society for over 2,000 years. However, he is not considered the principal deity of Confucianism. Confucianism is primarily a philosophy focused on moral principles and societal harmony, rather than a religion with deities. While Confucius is highly revered in Confucianism, he is not viewed as a deity.