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 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

Based on the verses from the Analects, Confucius emphasizes the distinction between moral behavior and profit-driven actions, which suggests a critical view of those who prioritize profit over morality. This perspective reflects a broader social hierarchy in ancient China, where specific attitudes toward different social classes were informed by their perceived values and behaviors.

The most relevant response in this context is:

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

This aligns with Confucius's views on morality and the idea that those motivated by profit (often associated with the merchants and those in the Shang class) could disrupt social harmony and moral order.