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 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 low positions held by the Nong meant that they were seen by the higher-ranking members of Chinese society as being lazy and greedy

Answer 1

Based on the verses from the Analects, Confucius emphasizes a clear distinction between moral integrity and self-interest, which can be interpreted as reflective of the attitudes toward different social classes in ancient China.

The statements provided highlight that Confucius regards moral understanding and selflessness as virtuous traits, typically associated with the "gentleman" (or "junzi"). In contrast, he associates the pursuit of profit with lower moral standing, which suggests a critical view of those who prioritize selfish gain—often representative of the lower classes or those in positions of power who might engage in corrupt practices.

Given the options, the best response aligning with Confucian attitudes is:

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

This choice reflects Confucius's concerns about moral behavior in governance and the social consequences of prioritizing profit over ethics, resonating with the broader critique he presents regarding social classes motivated by self-interest at the expense of communal harmony and moral values.