Confucianism
Confucius, or Kongzi, was a Chinese teacher and social philospher whose moral teachings developed into the moral system known today as Confucianism. Confucius was born in 551 BC in the city of Qufu located in the Chinese state of Lu. Experiencing the loss of his father at the ripe age of three, Confucius was raised in poverty by his young mother as part of the Shi class -- a link between the old nobility and the common people. After marrying
Qi Quan and raising a family, Confucius became a minor administrative manager for the State of Lu and later was granted the position of Justice Minister. After later resigning from the position, Confucius traveled throughout the Chinese States in hopes of converting political leaders to his views of political correctness. Lacking success, Confucius spent the remaining years of his life in the province of Lu teaching and writing about individual morality and ethics, and the proper exercise of political powers by rulers. These discussions and lessons were eventually accumulated into The Analects--copies of the discussions and teachings shared with his pupils.
Moral Teachings of Confucianism
Confucianism strongly emphasizes the cultivation of one's character. Stressing the benefits of a pure heart, a child-like respect, and a sense of piety, Confucianism teaches that one must nourish these qualities in order to become Junzi, or the perfect man. Moreover, emphasizing the overall "good nature" of humans, Confucianism centers its moral standings around "The Golden Rule", merely a negatation of the Christian version, saying "Do not do to others what you would not like them to do to you." This humaneness serves as the backbone of Confucius morality as it portrays the highest form of humanity as a combination of the qualities of a "saint," scholar, and a gentleman. According to Confucianism, this Junzi, or highest form of humanity, sticks to virtue, while the opposite inferior man clings to material comfort.
Confucius' teachings center around certain key virtues:
-Jen: - human heartedness; goodness; benevolence, a sense for the dignity of human life--a feeling of humanity towards others and self-esteem for yourself.
-Li: - an understanding of the order of life, understanding relationships, and the principles of gain and benefit
-Yi: - righteousness; the ability to recognize what is right and good; the ability to feel what is the right thing to do.
-Chun tzu: - being the perfect gentleman, selfless
-Te: - virtue of honest rule/ideal government (reflects political influence of Confucianism)
-Hsiao: - filial piety; reverence, respect, family honor
-Chih: - knowledge of right and wrong, moral wisdom
Morality Regarding Relationships
Confucianism points to ideal moral behaviors regarding the relationships established with other humans. According to Confucius' belief, individuals are held to simultaneously stand in different degrees of relationship with different people, and thus must act accordingly. Family relationships were valued highly as part of this morality.
The Five Levels of Relationships and Ideal Attitudes Regarding Each
-Father/Son: - a loving and reverent relationship
-Elder Brother/Younger Brother - a gentle and respectful relationship
-Husband/Wife - A relationship based on listening and understanding
-Friend/Friend - A considerate, compassionate, and deferential relationship
-Ruler/Subject - A benevolent and loyal relationship
Confucius Teachings On...
-Honesty - This morality is based on varying levels of honesty. One must be honest and honoring towards his heritage. Honesty towards oneself is stressed by the Golden Rule. A gentleman should be honest to others.
-The Poor - Although Confucianism points out that humans are capable of cultivating their qualities to acheive a higher status (just as Confucius rose in the social structure), Confucianism teaches selflessness and exhibits respect towards those who give to the less fortunate.
-Matieral Goods - One is considered inferior if he is ruled by material goods. Confucius warned against the temptations of profit.
-Human Condition - Humans are born naturally good and must cultivate these attributes to attain a higher sense of being
Sexualtiy - A gentleman must not be lustful. Instead, an understanding relationship should be established with a woman through marriage.
Sources:
Philosophy Lander
Standford Encyclopedia
WCKFC
Answers.com
WSU
Wikipedia
Printed Source: Ruggiero, Adriane. Confucianism. Farmington Hills: Greenhaven Press, 2006.
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