Based on these verses, what does Confucius recognize about specific attitudes toward specific social classes in ancient China?

Question

(1 point)
Responses

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.

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 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 Shang class were viewed with disrespect because their greed threatened natural harmony.

Answer 1

Confucius recognized that attitudes toward specific social classes in ancient China were often characterized by a hierarchy of respect and moral judgment. Each social class was associated with particular roles and behaviors that influenced how they were perceived by others.

1. The Nong (farmers) were often seen as being lazy and greedy, reflecting a negative perception by higher-ranking members of society towards those who held low positions.

2. The Shi (scholars or officials) were held in low esteem primarily due to their moral failings in governance, indicating that ethical behavior was essential to their societal status.

3. The Gong (artisans or craftsmen) were regarded with less respect than the Shang (merchants or landlords) because their work involved manual labor, suggesting a societal bias against physical labor.

4. The Shang class was disrespected partly due to their perceived greed, which was seen as a threat to natural harmony, highlighting the importance of moral considerations in social standing.

Overall, Confucius's views reflect a complex interplay between social roles and moral virtues, emphasizing that respect in society was closely tied to ethical behavior and the perceived contributions of each class to overall harmony and order.