practical ethics

  • Mencius – Chapter 12.2

    Cao Jiao doubts he can become sage kings Yao and Shun due to his physique. Mencius argues sagehood relies on practicing filial piety rather than looks. The moral Way is an open road; one only fails to seek it, with teachers all around.

  • The Analects – Chapter 14.12

    Zilu asked Confucius, “What kind of person can be called a ‘complete person’ (a morally and intellectually fulfilled individual)?”The Master said, “If someone possesses the wisdom of Zang Wuzhong, the lack of desire of Gongchuo, the courage of Bian Zhuangzi, and the talents of Ran Qiu – and is further refined by ritual and…

  • Doctrine of the Mean Chapter 24. From particular sincerity to universal transformation

    Next comes “attending to particulars”.Through focused sincerity in specific matters, one attains sincerity;sincerity becomes manifest;manifestation becomes evident;evidence becomes luminous;luminosity moves others;movement brings transformation;transformation leads to full moral transformation.Only the supremely sincere person under heaven can achieve this transformative power.

  • The Analects – Chapter 103 (5.13). Confucius’ practical ethics vs. Laozi’s cosmic Dao

    5.13 Zigong said, “Our Master’s views concerning culture and the outward insignia of goodness, we are permitted to hear; but about Man’s nature and the ways of Heaven he will not tell us anything at all.”