The World of Confucianism

Confucianism, or the philosophy of Confucius, is similar to the Christian viewpoint of treating others the way we would like to be treated. Confucius believed in loyalty and respectability to family and treating others with kindness. What comes to mind is the golden rule of treating others as one wants to be treated. As Matthew 7:12 reads, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets”. Likewise, Confucian methods were focused on good ethics and virtue. Virtuous action towards others begins with virtuous and sincere thought, which begins with knowledge. A virtuous disposition without knowledge is susceptible to corruption, and virtuous action without sincerity is not true righteousness.

 

The characters depicted in Ailing’s “Sealed Off” do not align with the belief system of Confucianism. Early in the story, Zongzhen demonstrates his dislike for both his nephew and his wife. Exasperated with his life, Zongzhen during a tramcar ride sets his eyes upon a female passenger named Cuiyuan. Putting aside all ethics associated with being a married man, Zongzhen decides to move closer in to make contact with Cuiyuan. Never mind that his nephew was on the same tram–he did not like him anyway. Before too long, Zongzhen and Cuiyuan engage in a conversation where both reveal their dissatisfaction with their lives. Towards the end of their conversation, Cuiyuan shares her telephone number with Zongzhen. Her desire is to explore something different and unorthodox although she knows it will go against the value system that her family believes in.

 

In yet another story that also tends to come away from the Confucian belief system, T’len-Hsin’s “Man of La Mancha” tells a story about a man that is consumed with how the world might perceive him after he dies. It is a strange matter to be thinking about, but the gentleman considers several scenarios. He thinks about the contents of his wallet and imagines when someone discovers his dead body.  He wonders if they will be able to identify him–not so much his name and his residence, but more so his status based on his wallet contents. He considers his underwear and if he should change his style from briefs to boxers. He goes out and buys name-brand underwear to solidify his place in society. In short, his overzealous concern was worldly and did not embody the integrity and moral ethics associated with Confucianism. The man’s actions also reveal that he is not at peace with himself. He is troubled about a natural part of life that everyone will experience at some time. It is certainly wise to put affairs in order before one dies but this is to ensure the welfare of those family members one leaves behind. 

The golden rule ethics associated with Confucianism can be easily added to lesson plans. While public schools may not teach religion, The Bible can be taught in a school, as it relates to its literary value. Matthew 7:12 in The Bible is closely related to Confucius’ views on the golden rule. Moreover, John 14:27 is relevant to Confucius’ thoughts on self-virtue, peace, and knowledge. To avoid crossing over into territories that are deemed inadmissible in a school setting, The Anti-Defamation League has a wealth of information that will be of great use to educators. Check out their resources here.