HPC 12. Gentlemen’s Agreement: Confucian Virtue Ethics

The Doctrine of the Mean is a key text in Confucian philosophy, attributed to Zisi, the grandson of Confucius. It elaborates on the central doctrines of Confucianism, emphasizing the importance of balance, harmony, and moderation. The text is divided into three parts: Confucian metaphysics, politics, and ethics. It guides individuals on how to maintain a state of constant equilibrium and follow the 'Way' by practicing virtues such as sincerity, honesty, and propriety. The text also discusses the role of rulers in maintaining balance and encouraging the 'Way' in others.

The book 'Mencius' is one of the Chinese Thirteen Classics and consists of seven chapters. It presents Mencius's philosophical arguments through dialogues with other thinkers and rulers, focusing on the innate goodness of human nature, the four cardinal virtues (benevolence, righteousness, propriety, and wisdom), and the importance of extending compassion and moral behavior. Mencius argues that humans have innate moral 'sprouts' that can be cultivated through education and self-discipline, and he advocates for benevolent governance and moral conduct over utilitarian or pragmatic considerations.

The Analects is a collection of sayings and ideas attributed to the Chinese philosopher Confucius and his contemporaries. It offers insights into Confucian ethics, politics, and social life. The text emphasizes the importance of moral cultivation, ritual propriety, and the cultivation of virtues like ren (benevolence) and yi (righteousness). It's a foundational text for understanding Confucian thought and its influence on Chinese culture and beyond. The Analects' aphoristic style and focus on practical wisdom have made it a significant work in both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions.

The Analects is a classic text that addresses practical issues of life and conduct through dialogues, stories, and anecdotes. Confucius's teachings focus on virtue, happiness, state governance, and human relationships, all based on principles of justice and moderation. Translated by Arthur Waley and introduced by Sarah Allan, this edition remains one of the most influential texts in philosophy even after two and a half millennia.

The Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's most renowned work on ethics, focusing on the science of the good for human life. The text is divided into ten books and discusses the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' which is achieved through living a virtuous life. Aristotle argues that eudaimonia is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, emphasizing the importance of reason, moral virtues, and the pursuit of excellence. The work also explores the division of the soul, the role of rationality in human life, and the ultimate goal of human activity, which is to achieve happiness through virtuous actions and a complete life.