Ethics Activity #7

1. Explain the essence of Confucian golden mean.

The Confucian Golden Mean, known as "Zhongyong," is a fundamental concept in Confucian
teachings that stress the importance of balance and harmony in life. It encourages avoiding
extremes and finding a middle ground to maintain stability. Confucius believed that a well-
balanced life, where actions and emotions are kept in check, leads to personal and social
well-being.

Confucius taught that people should aim for a moderate path, not going to extremes of excess
or deficiency. This balance is not just about self-control but also involves responding
appropriately to different situations. For instance, showing the right amount of respect,
enthusiasm, or diligence in work. By staying away from extremes, individuals can lead a
harmonious and satisfying life.

The Golden Mean also relates to moral conduct. Confucius thought that virtue lies in
moderation. For example, being courageous means finding the balance between recklessness
and cowardice. Similarly, generosity lies between being stingy and extravagant. By striking
this middle ground, individuals can develop a virtuous and stable character.

Following the Golden Mean requires self-awareness and discipline. It involves being mindful
of one's actions and their impact on others. This mindfulness helps in cultivating a well-
rounded approach to life, fostering personal growth, and improving relationships with others.

On a broader scale, practicing the Golden Mean promotes social harmony. When individuals
practice moderation and balance, interactions in society become more respectful and
cooperative. This leads to a cohesive society where people coexist in mutual respect and
understanding. Essentially, the Confucian Golden Mean aims to create a balanced,
harmonious life for individuals and society, encouraging moderation in thoughts, actions, and
emotions.

2. How did Confucius characterize virtue?

Confucius defined virtue, represented by "Ren" (仁), as the essential quality of a morally
upright individual. Virtue in Confucian teachings comprises several essential characteristics
that form the basis of good moral character and harmonious living.
Kindness: Core to Confucian virtue is benevolence, which involves showing kindness and
compassion to others. Confucius believed that a virtuous person always seeks to assist and
care for others' well-being, emphasizing genuine care and understanding.

Justice: Another significant aspect of Confucian virtue is justice, which entails doing what is
morally right and fair. Confucius taught that a virtuous person must act according to moral
principles, even in challenging situations. Justice is about integrity and upholding ethical
standards.

Respectful Behavior: Confucius stressed the significance of proper conduct, known as "Li"
(礼), involving respectful behavior and adherence to social norms in interactions. Proper
conduct includes following social customs and rituals that encourage respect and harmony
within the community. It encompasses fulfilling social roles and responsibilities.

Wisdom: Wisdom is a crucial element of virtue in Confucian philosophy, encompassing the

ability to comprehend and apply moral principles correctly. A wise individual can discern the
right actions in different circumstances. Wisdom involves both knowledge and practical
application.

Loyalty and Family Respect: Confucius valued loyalty to friends and filial piety, showing
respect and duty towards parents and ancestors. These values reflect the broader Confucian
emphasis on valuing relationships and maintaining social harmony through care and respect
for family and friends.

Confucius believed that embodying these virtues leads to personal and social harmony,
contributing to a just and peaceful world. Virtue, according to Confucian thought, is not only
about individual actions but also about developing a moral character that naturally guides
right behavior and harmonious living. By embracing these virtues, individuals can create a
better society and a more fulfilling life for themselves and others.