UGFH1000

Fall 2012
Focus Questions
The Analects
1. How does Confucius teach?
Both Confucius and Socrates preferred oral transmission of their teachings. None of the two
wrote anything. How is the Analects different from the Symposium as a record of dialogues? Are
the two masters similar or different in the way they teach and the way they behave?
2. How should we relate to the others?
2.1 183187What
is Confuciuss idea of ren (humaneness). What is its relation with yi (rightness) and li
(ritual/rites)? In what ways are they important for the individual and for the state?
2.2 196198In Confuciuss argument with
the lord of She () (see 13.18), what is the difference between the lord of Shes Honest
() and Confuciuss honesty? Which do you think is more important in the modern
world? Will you apply or modify Confuciuss idea of xiao in your relation with your parents
and with your children in the future?
2.3 188191According to
Confucius, why do we need friends? how do we choose them? what should we do with
them? Are Confuciuss ideas suitable to your life? Does Confucius share Aristotles views
about true friendship?