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

Answer 1

Based on the verses from the Analects, Confucius emphasizes the importance of moral integrity over the pursuit of profit. This perspective implies a critical view of those who prioritize profit-seeking behavior, which can be associated with the lower social classes or those deemed "small men" who lack moral understanding.

In the context of ancient Chinese social classes, Confucius appears to hold the "Shi" (scholars and gentlemen) in high esteem for their moral understanding and ethical behavior, while he views the "Gong" (artisans) and "Nong" (peasants/farmers) with less respect when it comes to moral conduct. However, he does not directly assert that these groups are "lazy" or "greedy" in the verses provided. Instead, his focus is on illustrating a dichotomy between moral leadership (associated with the Shi) and profit-driven actions (associated with smaller, less virtuous social actors).

Thus, among the provided statements, the response that aligns best with Confucius's views within the context of the verses is:

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

This interpretation reflects the broader Confucian critique of greed as a detrimental quality, highlighting the relationship between morality and social harmony. It suggests that those in higher positions (like the Shang) could be seen as embodying negative traits that harm societal order, contrasting with the ideal behavior expected of the gentleman.