Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
1. Discuss in detail some of the key ideas of Confucius on morality and human character. (250 words)
Ethics by Lexicon publications
Why this question:
The question is intended to examine the ideas of Confucius and his philosophy.
Key demand of the question:
One must explain the key ideas of Confucius on morality and human character.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Confucianism became a major system of thought in Ancient China, developed from the teachings of Confucius and his disciples, and concerned with the principles of good conduct, practical wisdom, and proper social relationships. Throughout the feudal societies, it almost became dominant thinking.
Body:
Discuss the basic features of the Confucius’s philosophy and elaborate on the basis.
Explain the 5 key principles; discuss his ideas on human character and morality in detail. The central idea of Confucius is that every normal human being cherishes the aspiration to become a superior man—superior to his fellows, if possible, but surely superior to his own past and present self. This does not more than hint at perfection as a goal.
Confucius taught that to pursue the art of life was possible for every man, all being of like passions and in more things like than different. He says: “By nature men are nearly alike; by practice, they get to be wide apart.
Quote suitable example wherever necessary and explain.
Conclusion:
Conclude by reasserting the significance of his teachings.
