The Analects – Chapter 170 (7.22). Learning from everyone: Confucius’ wisdom of omnipresent education

7.22

The Master said,”Even when walking in a party of no more than three I can always be certain of learning from those I am with. There will be good qualities that I can select for imitation and bad ones that will teach me what requires correction in myself.”

子曰：「三人行，必有我師焉。擇其善者而從之，其不善者而改之。」

Notes

This classic statement from the Analects about learning attitude and self-cultivation method reveals, in extremely concise language, the simple truth that “learning can happen anywhere, from anyone.” It demonstrates the core Confucian spirit of “humble studiousness and self-reflection”, becoming an important guide for scholars to improve themselves and perfect their character.

Confucius’ words completely overthrow the conventional notion that “only those of high status or deep knowledge can be teachers.” Whether officials or common people, whether noble persons or petty ones, all can become “teachers” – because everyone has their strengths. The prerequisite for this recognition is humility: acknowledging one’s own imperfection and that others must have something to teach us.

Learning is omnipresent, not limited to classrooms or classics. Every scene of daily interaction (travel, conversation, observation) represents a learning opportunity.

Discern and emulate the strengths in others; when seeing others’ shortcomings, immediately engage in self-reflection – correct them if any, guard against them if not.

“When you see a person of virtue and excellence, strive to emulate their example; when you see someone lacking in virtue, reflect on your own conduct.”(Analects 4.17)

Taking people of virtue as role models and proactively following their lead, and using those who lack virtue as mirrors to conduct self-reflection – turning others’ words and deeds into resources for self-improvement constitutes the core method of self-cultivation in Confucianism.