Confucian philosophy and revolutionary thought

Confucianism

Confucius is regarded as one of the most innovative and intellectual philosophers of all time. Confucius and his teachings, even today, command a very large following. For one, Confucius relies extensively on simple yet timeless principles that will endure irrespective of societal growth. His principles are just as relevant today as they were 2500 years ago. In the midst of economic turmoil, civil unrest, greed and envy, many of Confucius' more profound principles apply today. One such principle is that of innovation. Confucius himself was an innovator introducing many unique ideas to both authority and self-cultivation. It was through his belief on innovation which challenged many of the more established customers of society (Hsin-chung, 2000).

To begin, in chapter 2 verse 11, in The Analects, Confucius outlines one of his most profound teachings in regards to innovation. This principle stressed discovering new ideas from intensive study of the old ideas. Confucius himself used these principles by developing many new ideas through study of the older ideas prevailing in society. He did these by looking patterns, relationships between cause and effect, connections, and unexplained biases in thinking. Through this method he developed techniques that allowed him to develop his philosophy over time while also changing the views of society.

For instance, one profound teaching from Confucius was that of meritocracy. This concept differed substantially from inherited traditions of the past. For one, in society, it was customary to give a disproportionately amount of inherited wealth to the first born son in the family. Women and other children following the first born were shunned. In many instances, if two sons were born, the second would receive very little in regards to inheritance as compared to the first born. In addition, the second son was often disadvantages as many of the more profound teachings and education was reserves for the first born. This system ultimately disadvantaged as vast majority of civilization as select few "nobility" commanded a disproportionate amount of the nations wealth, power, and authority. As such, Confucius argued for a society based more on morals and virtue as oppose to simple luck. Confucius, therefore set up his own school that produced statement with a strong sense of patriotism and duty (Tu, 1990).

This innovative thought also led to the Imperial examination system in China. This system allowed anyone who passed the examination to become members of the government. In this capacity, those who passed the exam were given an entry level position as a government official. This position was highly valued in society. This was believed to bring both wealth and honor to the individual fortunate enough to pass.

Another innovative idea that impacted the Confucian philosophy and society in general was "Ren" or humanness. From his teaching arose the term, "Do not do unto others what you would not have them do unto you." This concept of "Ren" forms the basis of Confucian belief regarding authority. For instance, a leader must posses "Ren" in order for his subjects to posses it as well. According to Confucius, a ruler who reigns humanely and takes care of the people is to be obeyed strictly. He believed the benevolence of his dominion shows that he has been mandated by heaven. This principle, must like the others mentioned above was very unique. This concept differed substantially from the inherited traditions of the past. In many instances society was often not considered by the overall Ruler. Society was simply expected to obey as the ruler had the authority, power, and wealth to command such obedience. Confucius challenged this mandate by first stating his signature golden rule: Do not do unto others what you would not have them do unto you. In this instance, Rulers should not impose laws on society that they themselves would not follow if the positions were reversed. In addition, Confucius sought for Rulers to rule in a manner that had placed society ahead of the needs of the ruler. In this instance, this innovative view was seen as radical and against tradition.