Confucius Un-Confounding Confucianism: Understanding Hierarchy Term Paper

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A more complete reading of the Analects places these requirements for contentment and piety in a much different context that shows the true righteousness and even equanimity of the suggestions, however. When questioned about humanity, Confucius lists the qualities of "reverence, generosity, truthfulness, diligence, and kindness" as necessary in a "man of humanity" (Sourcebook, 19). While it might be easier for a wealthy and powerful man to not think of his salary and to continue perpetuating the system of authority in which he finds himself, it is no easier for the wealthy man to be truly reverent, honest, or diligent, and it is far harder for many wealthy individuals to be truly generous and kind in their dealings with others. To lead a truly good and well-purposed life, the wealthy and powerful must actually bear extra internal burdens to make sure that their wealth and power are wielded correctly.

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Confucius was not making an argument strictly for the perpetuation of the status quo, but was truly seeking to establish greater harmony through his injunctions and advice. Though there is still much in the Analects to support the idea of a stratified society, with most individuals not ever achieving true power or stature in that society, Confucius' overall advice and intent is to create harmony within the system as a whole. This requires every individual within the societal system to recognize their place in that system and to act with knowledge of the effects their actions have, and to recognize from an internal perspective the rectitude of their placement in the social scheme.

Social mobility is not favored by Confucian doctrine. Democratic sensibilities might smart at much of what Confucius said, but his underlying goal is truly honorable. A well-functioning society is more capable of promoting happiness at….....

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