Final answer:
Option (B) Neo-Confucianism's focus on ethical living and merit-based social mobility aligns with the principles of good governance, suggesting that it is likely to enhance a career in government or civil service by promoting virtue and integrity which are valued in these professions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In analyzing whether Neo-Confucianism is likely to help or hinder one's career, particularly in the civil service or government, it's important to consider the philosophical foundation of Neo-Confucianism and its historical context. Option B, which states that Neo-Confucianism aligns with the principles of good governance and moral conduct, thus enhancing one's career in government, can be strongly supported given the emphasis Neo-Confucianism places on ethics and virtue within its teachings.
Neo-Confucianism, developed during the Song Dynasty, included a revival and reinterpretation of Confucian thought, placing a greater emphasis on reason and a critical engagement with Buddhist and Taoist philosophies. Unlike classical Confucianism, which was more focused on tradition and hierarchy, Neo-Confucianism emphasized personal moral understanding and effort, advocating for an ethical form of social mobility through the study and understanding of the Classics. This philosophical framework, which underscores moral integrity and duty, would be inherently beneficial for a career in the civil service, where such attributes are highly valued for effective governance and service to the public.
Additionally, the Confucian civil service system, respected for its merit-based examination process, is a historical testament to the value placed on scholarship and moral principles over aristocratic privilege. Thus, Neo-Confucianism's focus on virtue and merit-based advancement could serve as a guiding principle that aligns well with modern civil service practices, suggesting that it would likely support rather than hinder one's career in government.