Rob LaFleur on Confucianism and Being All in on Life (Episode 104)
Dec 15, 2023
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Rob LaFleur, Professor of Anthropology & History at Beloit College, discusses the similarities and differences between Stoicism and Confucianism, emphasizing virtue ethics, relationships, hierarchy, and filial piety. He explores the challenges in understanding The Analects and offers advice on how to study Confucianism effectively.
Confucianism and Stoicism share a focus on virtue and role ethics.
The Analects of Confucius can be challenging to understand due to its chaotic structure.
Confucianism emphasizes relationality and the importance of fulfilling duties in relationships.
Mourning in Confucianism serves as a reminder of relationality and recharging.
Deep dives
Confucianism as a Philosophy of Life
Confucianism is described as a philosophy of life that focuses on getting good at life. It is about studying and applying what you have learned to improve oneself and be aware of one's surroundings and social relationships.
The Role of Analytics in Confucianism
The analytics of Confucianism is a collection of texts that took 500 years to come into its current form. It is challenging to read due to its chaotic structure, but the key to understanding it is to envision it as a teaching experience or a classroom where topics related to ethics and getting good at life are discussed and punctuated over time.
Understanding Confucianism as Virtue Ethics
Confucianism can be seen as a form of virtue ethics, emphasizing social moral ethical virtuosity. It encourages individuals to excel in their roles and relationships, from family members to societal positions, in ways that positively influence others and contribute to a harmonious society.
The Importance of Relationships and Relationality
Relationality is a core aspect of Confucianism, stressing the importance of relationships and being present in them. It involves being aware of one's hierarchical position and fulfilling duties and responsibilities accordingly. Practices like bowing and embodying the social moment promote relationality and being all in.
Recharging and Mourning
The Confucian tradition emphasizes the importance of mourning and recharging, particularly during the three-year mourning period. Mourning is seen as a way to reflect, recharge, and be present in the moment while honoring relationships with deceased family members. It serves as a reminder of the relationality and larger social connections in life.
Critiquing Individualism in the West
Individualistic lessons in the West can limit our understanding of the relational aspect of life. Confucianism offers an alternative perspective that acknowledges that one's character is formed in relation to others. It encourages a societal reset to prioritize relationality and rethink the definition of a good life.
Techniques and Rituals for Confucian Practice
One practical technique in Confucianism is to be present in the moment of one's role or relationship, similar to the act of bowing in East Asian cultures. The emphasis is on being all in and not rushing through social situations. Mourning and recharging are also important rituals that allow for reflection, honoring relationships, and finding balance in life.
Stoics care about virtue and role ethics – two things central to Confucianism. Understanding the similarities and differences between the two philosophies can only enrich one’s philosophical theory and practice.
But going directly to the Confucian works is difficult. Conversations with experts like Professor LaFleur then are essential.