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 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 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.

Answer 1

Based on the verses from the Analects, Confucius emphasizes the distinction between moral character and profit-driven motives. The statements highlight that a gentleman values morality, while a smaller-minded individual prioritizes profit. This suggests that Confucius viewed leaders and individuals guided by moral principles as superior to those who are swayed by greed.

Among the responses provided, the most aligned with Confucian thought regarding social classes would be:

The Shi were held in low esteem because they did not practice moral behavior when running the government.

This response reflects Confucius's concern about the ethical behavior of those in positions of authority (the Shi, or scholars/gentlemen) and indicates that those who act without moral consideration undermine social harmony, which Confucius valued greatly in his philosophy.