Overview
This lecture explores the life, teachings, and ongoing legacy of Confucius, examining his influence on Chinese society, ethics, and philosophy from antiquity to the present.
Confucius: Controversial Figure
- Confucius remains a divisive symbol in China, alternately revered and criticized across history.
- He has been seen both as a sage of wisdom and as a target during periods of political change, such as the Cultural Revolution.
Life and Times of Confucius
- Born around 551 BCE to an impoverished aristocratic family; raised by his mother after his father's death.
- Worked various jobs before pursuing scholarship and a political career.
- Served as an advisor in the state of Lu but resigned due to his ruler's lack of virtue.
- Spent about 13 years wandering, seeking rulers who would implement his ideas, enduring hardship with his disciples.
- Returned to Lu as a teacher; accepted students from all backgrounds.
- His sayings were compiled after his death (479 BCE) into the Analects.
Key Themes in Confucianism (from the Analects)
- Happiness is found in everyday life, not escape from the world.
- Rulers should guide by virtue and moral example, not force or harsh laws.
- Ritual (li) should imbue all actions, making daily life sacred and harmonious.
- Learning is for ethical transformation, not just acquiring knowledge; it requires both study and reflection.
- Value tradition but adapt sensibly; combine the best of the old with understanding of the new.
- The family nurtures virtue and special obligations, shaping moral character.
Confucianism in Modern China
- Qing dynasty revered Confucius, but he was denounced by communist regimes, especially during the Cultural Revolution.
- Mao criticized Confucius, but later leaders (e.g., Xi Jinping) revived and praised Confucian traditions.
- There has been a renewed public and governmental interest in Confucianism in recent decades.
Confucianism and Western Thought
- Jesuit missionaries introduced Confucius and the Analects to Europe in the 17th century, translating his works into Latin.
- Early European philosophers admired Confucius and recognized the possibility of an ethical system without reference to God.
Q&A Highlights
- Confucius was ambiguous about the afterlife, focusing on serving the living.
- Confucianism emphasizes engagement with the world, while Buddhism often encourages detachment.
- Confucius is considered an "axial age" thinker, foundational to major world traditions.
- Confucius lived to over 70; average life expectancy was low, but those who survived childhood could live long.
- The Analects offer a more optimistic and humorous outlook than Ecclesiastes.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Analects — collection of Confucius's and his disciples' sayings, central text of Confucianism.
- Virtue (de) — moral excellence, guiding one's actions and leadership.
- Ritual (li) — prescribed conduct and ceremonies that cultivate respect and harmony in society.
- Filial piety — respect and duty toward one's parents and elders.
- Gentleman (junzi) — person of noble character, not determined by birth but by virtue.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Suggested: Read selections from the Analects to understand Confucius's core teachings.
- Reflect on how Confucian themes of virtue, ritual, and family apply to your own life.