Think…………………… zWhat the gentleman demands is something of himself. What the petty man demands is something of others. zAnyone learning without thought is lost, anyone thinking but not learning is in peril. zDo 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 zThese are all quotes by the famous Chinese philosopher/teacher/activist Confucius.

Confucius- Kung Fu Tzu

Kong Fu Tzu zBorn in 551 B.C.E. zdied in 479 B.C.E.

Kong Fu Tzu zBorn in 551B.C.E. to an aristocratic but poor family. zConfucius died in 479 B. C. E. zConfucius became involved in government early in life. His challenging thoughts on human behavior led to his dismissal. zConfucius focused on teaching instead in order to change young men before they became leaders.

Confucianism and Social Activism zConfucius saw many injustices in China, which was governed by warlords who frequently fought against each other, and behaved barbarically. zThe 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) zConfucius 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 zWhat is life truly about? zFor Kong it is about social order, and the betterment of society as a whole. zDo you agree? zAdditionally, society is male dominated as was shown to Kung during his early life. zBy 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 zLegalists: Stern rule of law and harsh punishments (Han Fei Tzu) zMohist: universal love, even towards enemies. (Mozi) zTaoist: cared little about societal improvement and believed that the path to human happiness lay in the individualistic pursuit of harmony with nature. (Lao Tzu) zWhich do you prefer?

Confucianism zConfucius believed that teaching and learning was the way to improve self, family, and society as whole zConcerned primarily with restoring social stability and order yWhat is the basis of a stable, unified, and enduring social order? za system of social and ethical philosophy y“only when character is cultivated are our families regulated; only when families are regulated are states well governed.”

Human Qualities z What is maturity? zWhat is the highest human virtue? zWhat is the best way to behave? zHow can one be a cultured person? zHow can one best govern?

Confucian Virtues zTao = the Universal Way zChun-tzu = mature person - this person has such abundant virtures that he or she is able to contribute to the improvement of society. zJen = supreme virtue = perfect form of benevolence - doing one’s best to treat others the way you would like to be treated. zLi = proper behavior = behaving properly given the situation at hand. zWen = a cultured person. Music, poetry, archery, calligraphy. zTe- virtue shown through the power of example.

Human Relationships zSelf = the center of all relationships and is constantly changing and growing towards maturity. zFamily = each person has a clear sense of place and purpose. Good behavior and respect for elders are important in the family. zGovernment = the leader has acquired the moral perfectionm needed to lead by the power of example. zHeaven = represents the ultimate moral force that guides and nurtures humanity.

Confucian Relationships zfather-child zruler-subject zhusband-wife zelder brother-younger brother zfriend-friend

True Gentleman? zHow would you define a true gentleman? zWhat characteristics would they posses? zAccording to Confucius, the True Gentleman was supposed to be a moral beacon for the rest of society

True Gentleman continued… zcultivate themselves morally; zshow filial piety and loyalty where these are due; zcultivate humanity, or benevolence. zAre you a true gentleman?

Other Cool Confucius Quotes zBefore you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves. zEverything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it. zForget injuries, never forget kindness. zCultivate the root; the branches will take care of themselves.

Questions zWhy was it difficult for Confucius to obtain government posts where he could influence Chinese life on a larger scale? zWhat did you find to be the essential teachings of Confucianism? zWhat was your favorite Confucius’ quote and why? zDo you consider Confucianism a world religion? Explain why or why not?