Early Asian Societal Structures Quick Check
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Question
Read the following verses from the Analects:
“The Master said, ‘If one is guided by profit in one’s actions, one will incur much ill will.’”
“The Master said, ‘The gentleman understands what is moral. The small man understands what is profitable.’”
Based on these verses, what does Confucius recognize about specific attitudes toward specific social classes in ancient China?
(1 point)
Responses
The Shang class were viewed with disrespect because their greed threatened natural harmony.
The Shang class were viewed with disrespect because their greed threatened natural harmony.
The Gong were held in lower respect than the Shang because they produced goods with their hands.
The Gong were held in lower respect than the Shang because they produced goods with their hands.
The Shi were held in low esteem because they did not practice moral behavior when running the government.
The Shi were held in low esteem because they did not practice moral behavior when running the government.
The low positions held by the Nong meant that they were seen by the higher-ranking members of Chinese society as being lazy and greedy.
The low positions held by the Nong meant that they were seen by the higher-ranking members of Chinese society as being lazy and greedy.
Based on the verses from the Analects, Confucius recognized that the small man, who is driven by profit, understands what is profitable, while the gentleman, who is guided by moral principles, understands what is moral. Therefore, it can be inferred that Confucius recognized that the attitude towards specific social classes in ancient China was based on their adherence to moral behavior and principles rather than their social position or occupation. None of the given options directly address the attitudes towards specific social classes in ancient China as mentioned in the verses.
To answer this question, we need to analyze the verses from the Analects by Confucius. Let's break down the key points in each verse:
Verse 1: "The Master said, ‘If one is guided by profit in one’s actions, one will incur much ill will.’”
This verse suggests that being motivated by profit can lead to generating negative feelings or animosities. It implies that focusing solely on personal gain may not be well-received in society.
Verse 2: "The Master said, ‘The gentleman understands what is moral. The small man understands what is profitable.’”
In this verse, Confucius emphasizes the distinction between a "gentleman" who understands moral principles and a "small man" who is primarily concerned with profitability. This suggests that Confucius values moral behavior over pursuing personal gain.
Based on these verses, it becomes clear that Confucius recognizes and values moral behavior over a focus on profit. Therefore, the correct answer is:
The Shi were held in low esteem because they did not practice moral behavior when running the government.
This answer aligns with Confucius's belief that individuals in positions of power, like the Shi (government officials), should prioritize moral principles rather than personal gain.