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Confucius, Emerson, and Ginsberg
From the book: Chum for Thought: Throwing Ideas into Dangerous Waters by David Satterlee
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| Chum For Thought: Throwing Ideas into Dangerous Waters |
Confucius, Emerson, and Ginsberg
The classic tenants of Confucianism and Taoism take
disparate, but not mutually-exclusive, views of existence. While only
Confucians would seek to give advice for improving society, elements of both
views are important to a balanced and healthful existence within a society.
Confucianism is all about improving society. Individuals are
expected to yield to established laws and the greater good of the community.
The fundamental concept for maintaining society is the competence and fairness
of public servants, which earns respectful honor and loyalty (for others,
family, ancestors, public servants, and tradition). Law and tradition are
looked to for guidance. The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
explains:
Confucius' social philosophy largely revolves around
the concept of ren, “compassion” or “loving others.” Cultivating or
practicing such concern for others involved deprecating oneself. … Learning
self-restraint involves studying and mastering li, the ritual forms and
rules of propriety through which one expresses respect for superiors and enacts
his role in society in such a way that he himself is worthy of respect and
admiration. A concern for propriety should inform
