embodied ethics

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.4

    When Confucius entered the ducal gate, he bowed deeply as if there were no room for him. He never stood in the center of the doorway, nor did he step on the threshold. Passing by the ruler’s seat, his expression instantly became solemn, his steps quickened, and his speech grew hushed, as though he…

  • Mencius – Chapter 7.27 The roots of virtue

    Mencius said: “The essence of ren (benevolence) is serving one’s parents;the essence of yi (righteousness) is following one’s elder brothers.The essence of zhi (wisdom) is understanding these two and never abandoning them;the essence of li (ritual propriety) is giving them proper form and refinement;the essence of yue (music/joy) is delighting in these two –and…