early chinese thought

[clay dube]

Hi Folks,
Ying Jia distributed this set of readings earlier, but I thought it might be handy to have here in the thread about philosophy.
edited by Clay Dube on 10/15/2012

[Anonymous]

One of the things I found interesting about some of the early Chinese philosophies is that the teachings of some of the philosophers were not written by themselves. For example, Confucius never wrote down his teachings. Everything we know about his philosophy comes from his students. I found this Confucian teaching interesting: It is better to be worthy of holding office than actually holding office. This makes me think that the Confucius way of thinking is based on self reflection and not the judgements of others. I often find myself looking for validation from others about myself. I think that Confucianism shows wisdom in this area of approving of one's self and knowing one's role.

[Anonymous]

Hi lvaden! I too found that particular Confucius teaching thought provoking. The agree with the dea that one has to be worthy of his title, and therefore, it is more important to be worthy of the title than having the title. It isn't that difficult to acquire a title, but to prove that you deserve the title is what counts. One can become a "teacher" pretty easily, but to be a great teacher, one must have the moral fortitude and work hard at it. I think this applies to every title a person posses. That is why Confucius believed so strongly in people being worthy and great at their role within their family. I think this philosophy is wonderful rule to model to our students to help them do their very best and to be successful. Amy

[Anonymous]

I was very interested to learn a little about Daoism in our reading and in class. The Do de jing responds to Confucianism and Moaism that people have a natural force. The writings state that the problem with society is that people cause their own problems and instead need to embrace their power and the natural order of things. Daoist strongly believe that because people have rituals, construct and nourish, they ultimately end up taking society away from it's natural order. They think people should just let things be and stop working so hard to pursue civilization. If people would behave more like an animal, which is guided by its natural instincts, people would be in balance with the natural law. The Daoist goal is for all people to live by a minimalist rule. I feel that on one hand, it is important to "go with the flow", and that people can't, nor should try, to control everything in their lives. But on the other hand, if we eliminated rituals, education,etc., a society would be ignorant and chaotic. Even animals have their own rituals, teach and nurture their young. I think this could be an interesting lesson for my second graders...hmmm

[Anonymous]

I really enjoyed the Saturday workshop. I plan on incorporating a collegiate style of debate in one my classes. I like the back and fourth approach that we used, but with 10th grade students, I suggest having a structure that allows two students to speak for the group using a timed format.

[Anonymous]

I like the Confucian teaching you focused in on, Laura. I think it is true. It is better to be worthy of holding office than actually holding office because it is when we have the power that we are worthy of that we often loose our worth. People can't handle power. It is better to be self-disciplined and striving than to achieve and crumble.

[Anonymous]

I find this philosophy interesting as well, Amy. Confucians believe in balance, the yin and the yang. I feel daoism is not balanced enough. If we were to just go with the flow all the time, society would get off kilter. Nothing would get done and eventually we would meet our demise. I think Confucious was closer to the mark with his value on family and balance.

[Anonymous]

I found all four philosophies an interesting study. Katherine, I like the point you made about Daoism - that if we were to just go with the flow all the time, society would get off kilter.
Amy, I like the point that you make regarding being worthy of a title. Acquiring the title isn't the important matter, but rather being worthy. I wonder how many current people in power are actually worthy of their title?

[clay dube]

Hi Folks -- please share your ideas about our Saturday, 10/13 session focusing on Chinese philosophy. Please feel free to discuss the ideas articulated, the texts, things we highlighted, things we missed, and how to bring these ideas alive for your students.

I've attached a two page handout for the session.

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[Anonymous]

So I teach 3rd grade, but I think there is a way to have students understand these philosophies. I too like the balance of Confucianism but I do like the minimalist apporach that Daoist preach as well. I am so curious to see which philosophies my students lean towards. I will have to try to not instill too much bias as I present the information.

[Author]

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