Think……………………

1. 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.

2. Confucius- Kung Fu Tzu

3. Kong Fu Tzu • Born in 551 B.C.E. • died in 479 B.C.E.

4. 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.

5. 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

6. 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.

7. 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?

8. 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.”

9. 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?

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. Confucian Relationships • father-child • ruler-subject • husband-wife • elder brother-younger brother • friend-friend

13. 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

14. True Gentleman continued… • cultivate themselves morally; • show filial piety and loyalty where these are due; • cultivate humanity, or benevolence. • Are you a true gentleman?

15. 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.

16. 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?