Confucius

Biographical Info. Confucius was born in 550 BC near the city of Qufu. He got through his childhood in poverty by meditating a lot. He was a Chinese teacher, philosopher, and political theorist. He mastered the six arts such at ritual music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy, and arithmetic. He saw public service as a consequence of education, and wanted to revitalize the way the Chinese reacted socially in there family, school, community, state, and kingdom. He served in government posts, but his policies didn’t have many followers. After a self-imposed 12 year exile he returned at age 67 to teach and write.

Culture and Time Born during the Spring and Autumn period, which was a period during the Zhou Dynasty During this time, which was known as the Warring States Period, there were many wars between families and different states of China Since there were many wars, it was a very bloody and violent time period to live in China had no political unity He was born in a noble family but lived in poverty for most of his life, like many people in China Created Confucianism, so he lived his life by that idea Lived his life with good conduct, practical wisdom and proper social relationships

Culture and Time He was a Shi, which mean retainer or knight in English There were other Shi like him, they led disciples and taught them about their ideas of life The disciples were from Shi backgrounds and he taught them his way of life and how to return the moral integrity of the state

Major Contributions Confucius’ social philosophy largely revolves around the concept of ren, “compassion” or “loving others.” His teachings are foundational to Asian cultures. Three key principles are emphasized in Confucius’ teachings: the principles of Li, Jen and Chun-Tzu The term Li has several meanings, often translated as property, reverence, courtesy, ritual or the ideal standard of conduct. It is what Confucius believed to be ideal standard or religious, moral, and social conduct.

Major Contributions The second key concept is the Principle of Jen Jen is the virtue of goodness and benevolence. It is expressed thorough recognition of value and concern for others, no matter their rank or class. The third important concept in Chun-Tzu, the idea of true gentlemen. It is the man who lives according to the highest ethical standards. The gentlemen display five virtues: self- respect, generosity, sincerity, persistence, and benevolence. Confucius believed that in order to truly achieve the principles of Li, Jen, and the character of the true gentleman, one must look within oneself. All his principles revolve around a relationship with God first. Only then can we truly love our fellow man.

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