Think……………………
What the gentleman demands is something of
himself. What the petty man demands is
something of others.
Anyone learning without thought is lost, anyone
thinking but not learning is in peril.
Do not worry because you have no position.
Worry about your qualifications. Do not worry
because no one appreciates your abilities. Seek
to be worthy of appreciation
These are all quotes by the famous Chinese
philosopher/teacher/activist Confucius.
Confucius- Kung Fu Tzu
Kong Fu Tzu
Born in 551 B.C.E.
died in 479 B.C.E.
Kong Fu Tzu
Born in 551B.C.E. to an aristocratic but poor
family.
Confucius died in 479 B. C. E.
Confucius became involved in government early in
life. His challenging thoughts on human behavior
led to his dismissal.
Confucius focused on teaching instead in order to
change young men before they became leaders.
Confucianism and Social
Activism
Confucius saw many injustices in China, which
was governed by warlords who frequently
fought against each other, and behaved
barbarically.
The common people and peasants were often
victims caught in the crossfire. Also, warlords
exploited the common people they were
supposed to protect (ex. high taxes)
Confucius spoke truthfully to any warlord who
sought his advice about being fair leaders; some
were receptive but did not follow his advice;
others were hostile; assassins did attempt to kill
Confucius
Time to focus
What is life truly about?
For Kong it is about social order, and the
betterment of society as a whole.
Do you agree?
Additionally, society is male dominated as was
shown to Kung during his early life.
By the way, the name is a mispronunciation. He
would never have known the name Confucius.
3 Schools of Thought that Existed
in China during Confucius’ Time
Legalists: Stern rule of law and harsh
punishments (Han Fei Tzu)
Mohist: universal love, even towards enemies.
(Mozi)
Taoist: cared little about societal improvement
and believed that the path to human happiness
lay in the individualistic pursuit of harmony with
nature. (Lao Tzu)
Which do you prefer?
Confucianism
Confucius believed that teaching and learning
was the way to improve self, family, and society
as whole
Concerned primarily with restoring social
stability and order
What is the basis of a stable, unified, and enduring
social order?
a system of social and ethical philosophy
“only when character is cultivated are our families
regulated; only when families are regulated are
states well governed.”
Human Qualities
What is maturity?
What is the highest human virtue?
What is the best way to behave?
How can one be a cultured person?
How can one best govern?
Confucian Virtues
Tao = the Universal Way
Chun-tzu = mature person - this person has such
abundant virtures that he or she is able to contribute to
the improvement of society.
Jen = supreme virtue = perfect form of benevolence -
doing one’s best to treat others the way you would like
to be treated.
Li = proper behavior = behaving properly given the
situation at hand.
Wen = a cultured person. Music, poetry, archery,
calligraphy.
Te- virtue shown through the power of example.
Human Relationships
Self = the center of all relationships and is
constantly changing and growing towards
maturity.
Family = each person has a clear sense of place
and purpose. Good behavior and respect for
elders are important in the family.
Government = the leader has acquired the
moral perfectionm needed to lead by the power
of example.
Heaven = represents the ultimate moral force
that guides and nurtures humanity.
Confucian Relationships
father-child
ruler-subject
husband-wife
elder brother-younger brother
friend-friend
True Gentleman?
How would you define a true
gentleman?
What characteristics would they
posses?
According to Confucius, the True
Gentleman was supposed to be a
moral beacon for the rest of society
True Gentleman continued…
cultivate themselves morally;
show filial piety and loyalty where these
are due;
cultivate humanity, or benevolence.
Are you a true gentleman?
Other Cool Confucius Quotes
Before you embark on a journey of
revenge, dig two graves.
Everything has its beauty, but not
everyone sees it.
Forget injuries, never forget kindness.
Cultivate the root; the branches will take
care of themselves.
Questions
Why was it difficult for Confucius to obtain
government posts where he could influence
Chinese life on a larger scale?
What did you find to be the essential teachings
of Confucianism?
What was your favorite Confucius’ quote and
why?
Do you consider Confucianism a world religion?
Explain why or why not?