Read the following verses from the Analects:

Question

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

Answer 1

Based on the verses from the Analects, Confucius recognizes a distinction between different social classes and their attitudes toward morality and profit. The correct response would be:

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

This aligns with the idea that those who prioritize profit (often associated with the merchant class, or Shang) are seen in a negative light, while the gentlemen (or those of the Shi class) are viewed as moral and virtuous. Confucius emphasizes the importance of moral behavior over profit in guiding one's actions, suggesting a societal preference for ethical governance over material gain.