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?