Question

How does the philosophy expressed in the quote differ from the philosophy of Confucianism?

How is it similar? Your answer should include (a) what Confucianism has in common with the
quote (b) what Confucianism say about men with superior ability, (c) how people should improve
their lives, (d) a duty of a ruler under Confucianism.

Answer 1

The quote you're referring to, "The way to a man's heart is through his stomach," is a saying that emphasizes the role of providing for basic needs, such as food and comfort, in building relationships and gaining favor.

Confucianism is a philosophical and ethical system attributed to Confucius (Kong Fuzi) that originated in ancient China. While the quote and Confucianism are not directly related, there are some points of commonality and difference:

(a) Commonality with the Quote:

Both the quote and Confucianism recognize the importance of fulfilling basic human needs. Confucianism values the importance of social harmony, and part of achieving that harmony involves ensuring that people's basic needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing, are met.

(b) Confucianism on Men with Superior Ability:

Confucianism emphasizes the importance of recognizing and promoting individuals with superior abilities and virtues. It values education and the cultivation of moral character as a means to improve society. Confucius believed that leaders and officials should be selected based on their moral character and competence, not just on their birth or social status.

(c) Improving Lives in Confucianism:

Confucianism stresses self-improvement through moral cultivation. Confucius believed that individuals should strive for personal moral development, self-discipline, and the practice of virtues such as benevolence (ren), righteousness (yi), and filial piety (xiao) to improve their lives and contribute to the betterment of society.

(d) Duty of a Ruler under Confucianism:

According to Confucianism, the ruler has a duty to govern with benevolence, righteousness, and moral integrity. The ruler's role is to provide for the well-being of the people, ensure social harmony, and lead by moral example. The ruler should also follow the "Mandate of Heaven," which means ruling with the approval of the divine and with the welfare of the people in mind.

In summary, while the quote focuses on fulfilling basic needs to build relationships, Confucianism emphasizes moral development, the importance of individuals with superior abilities, and the role of the ruler in promoting the well-being of the people and social harmony. There are points of commonality in their recognition of the importance of meeting basic needs, but their broader philosophies and objectives are distinct.

Answer 2

(a) What Confucianism has in common with the quote:

Both the quote and Confucianism emphasize the importance of self-improvement and personal cultivation. They encourage individuals to strive for virtue, wisdom, and moral character as a means of creating a harmonious society.

(b) What Confucianism says about men with superior ability:

Confucianism places a high value on individuals with superior ability, known as junzi or "exemplary persons." According to Confucian philosophy, these individuals possess moral virtue, wisdom, and a sense of social responsibility. They are expected to lead by example and contribute to the betterment of society.

(c) How people should improve their lives:

According to Confucianism, people should improve their lives through self-cultivation and the practice of moral virtue, such as benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and fidelity. Confucianism emphasizes the development of one's character and the pursuit of moral excellence as the path to self-improvement.

(d) The duty of a ruler under Confucianism:

Confucianism places great importance on the role of the ruler and their duty to govern with virtue and benevolence. The ruler is expected to lead by moral example, promote the well-being of the people, maintain social harmony, and ensure justice and fairness in society. The ruler's primary responsibility is to create a just and prosperous society that fosters the moral development of its citizens.

The quote and Confucianism share a focus on personal cultivation, moral virtue, and the pursuit of excellence. However, there are also differences between the two. The quote appears to emphasize introspection and inner transformation, while Confucianism places more emphasis on social relationships, filial piety, and the importance of fulfilling one's roles and responsibilities within society. Confucianism also places a strong emphasis on the hierarchical structure of society and the role of rituals and propriety in maintaining social order.