Prompt 1: Analyzing Confucius
1.
Explain how a follower of Confucius should interpret this passage in order to live more ethically. A follower of Confucius should interpret this passage as a valuable lesson in living more ethically by following some key takeaways. The first takeaway to living more ethically is prioritizing human relationships. Confucius does this by caring more about the safety of individuals rather than loss of property when the barn burnt down. The
follower can also prioritize this by showing concern for emotional/ physical well being and offering support. Another takeaway is avoiding
materialism. In context of this passage Confucius did not have concern for the barn, horses, or anything else in the barn compared to the people affected in the fire. He values humility and not measuring his worth through material success. The last ethical takeaway that can be interpreted is leadership through virtue. If the follower holds a position of leadership or influence, they should lead by example, just as Confucius did. This means Leaders should demonstrate morals and set high ethical standards for others to follow. By applying all these teachings/takeaways, a follower of Confucius can lead a more ethical and virtuous life.
