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-childruler-subjecthusband-wifeelder brother-younger brotherfriend-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?