1. In my mind, the key idea of our study of moral systems is the relationship that they all share with each other. It is very unique in the sense that none of the founders of the systems were even aware of each other at the time of their origination. However, many of their key ideas are similar, although they are achieved by different means. They all share basic teachings on alcohol, sexuality, drives, and morality, even though they don't directly confront some of these issues.
2. Three of the most important ideas that I would like to remember are the three main moral systems that we studied: Buddhism, Confucianism, and Islam.
Buddhism's main ideas that I would like to remember are the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the Five Precepts. Mainly from these, the teaching that is part of the Four Noble Truths: the root of all suffering is desire, or "Samudaya." I think that many people can look at this and learn from it, because they have fallen into that trap today.
Confucianism's main teaching that I would like to remember is one of his Four Virtues, Jen. Jen means "right mindedness" or "goodness." According to Confucius, it is from this that all relationships flow from, and that the rest of the virtues are based on.
Islam's aspect that really stuck out to mean was one of its Five Pillars. The pillar of "salat," which is their five structured prayer periods every day, caught my attention. I truly admire their dedication to the religion, and to Allah. I'm not sure how well we would do as Catholics if we had five set times that we had to pray every day.
3. One good image that reminds me of one of these Moral Systems.
How can I bring ideas from each one of these unique moral systems together, and apply them each to my life in their own, different way?
5. To try to make me a better person, I would really look toward Confucius. Although he wasn't a "theologian," he was a "social philospher" and "thinker." I think that some of his ideas about relationships, respect, and behavior, can really teach us a lot about us and the world around us.