Mrs. Hayes


Respect for elders

The image represents the Confucian idea of reverence for elders. "According to Confucianism, elders in society should serve as examples of virtue for others to follow."  Elders were expected to be kind and honest.  According to Confucianism elders are more experienced than younger people.  "Confucianism was created during the warring states period."  The principle of respect for elders is a good solution to for the warring states, because states that have been around longer could serve as examples for others to follow.    

Confucius lived around 500 BCE.  "Confucius experienced firsthand the disorder that resulted from the warring states period.  Confucius understood that there had to be a change in government for society to function."  Confucius came up with the philosophy, Confucianism, as an answer to the warring states period.  In his book, The Analects, Confucius detailed ways that people should behave in order to have a peaceful society.  Confucius said to his followers, "The gentleman first practices what he preaches and then preaches what he practices."  This relates to the government of ancient China, because Confucius believed rulers should treat subjects fairly.   

Five Relationships

This slide outlines the five relationships described in Confucianism.  Within these relationships one person serves as the "example" and the other represents a person who can learn from the example.  For example, a child should follow the example set by their parents.  The elder should be a model of proper conduct.  Confucius encouraged people to follow the golden rule, "Do not do to others what you would not want done to you."  The golden rule applied to the five relationships means that there should be mutual respect within the relationship.     

The Analects are the sacred teachings of Confucius that have been compiled by his students.  The Analects explain how a person should behave.  Confucius believed people should be honest and fair

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