Confucius Flashcards
Who was Confucius?
A Chinese philosopher and teacher known for his teachings on ethics and morality.
What is the main focus of Confucianism?
The cultivation of virtue and maintenance of ethics in personal and governmental conduct.
In which country did Confucius primarily teach?
China.
What is the name of the collection of Confucius’s sayings and ideas?
The Analects.
True or False: Confucius advocated for a strict legalistic approach to governance.
False.
What is ‘ren’ in Confucian philosophy?
A concept meaning benevolence, kindness, or humaneness.
Fill in the blank: Confucius believed that __________ is essential for a harmonious society.
proper conduct.
What does ‘li’ refer to in Confucianism?
Ritual, propriety, or the proper way to behave.
Which dynasty did Confucius live during?
The Spring and Autumn period.
Multiple Choice: What is the term for the Confucian concept of filial piety?
A) Xiao B) Dao C) Ren D) Li
What is the significance of the ‘Five Relationships’ in Confucianism?
They describe the key relationships that govern human interactions: ruler-subject, father-son, husband-wife, elder brother-younger brother, friend-friend.
True or False: Confucius emphasized the importance of education.
True.
What does the term ‘junzi’ mean?
It means ‘gentleman’ or ‘noble person’ and refers to an ideal moral character.
Fill in the blank: Confucius believed that __________ was essential for personal development.
self-cultivation.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT one of the core values of Confucianism?
A) Wealth B) Ren C) Li D) Xiao
What role did rituals play in Confucian thought?
They were seen as essential for maintaining social order and respect within relationships.
True or False: Confucius was primarily concerned with the afterlife.
False.
What is the Confucian view on government?
Government should be based on moral virtue rather than force.
What does ‘zhongyong’ refer to in Confucian teachings?
The Doctrine of the Mean, emphasizing moderation and balance.
Fill in the blank: Confucius believed that __________ was the foundation of a stable society.
morality.
Who were the disciples of Confucius?
They were his students who spread his teachings after his death.
What is the significance of the ‘Analects’?
It is a collection of sayings and ideas attributed to Confucius and his disciples.
True or False: Confucius’s teachings were widely accepted during his lifetime.
False.
What is ‘dao’ in the context of Confucianism?
The way or path that one should follow in life.
Fill in the blank: Confucius’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of __________ in social relationships.
reciprocity.
Multiple Choice: Which concept emphasizes loyalty and respect toward one’s parents?
A) Ren B) Xiao C) Li D) Junzi
What was Confucius’s view on the role of the individual in society?
Individuals should strive to improve themselves and contribute positively to society.
True or False: Confucius advocated for a meritocratic system.
True.
What is the term used for the Confucian ideal of a wise and virtuous leader?
The ‘sage king’.
Fill in the blank: Confucius believed that __________ is more important than wealth.
virtue.
Multiple Choice: Confucius’s teachings were primarily recorded by which group?
A) His disciples B) Government officials C) Religious leaders D) Merchants
What is ‘si’ in Confucianism?
It represents the concept of ‘thinking’ or ‘introspection’.
True or False: Confucius believed that social harmony could be achieved through strict laws.
False.
What is the Confucian ideal regarding education?
Education should be available to all and is essential for personal and societal improvement.
Fill in the blank: According to Confucius, a __________ should exemplify moral integrity.
leader.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a key virtue in Confucianism?
A) Filial piety B) Righteousness C) Courage D) Greed
What does Confucius mean by the term ‘zhong’?
It refers to loyalty or devotion.
True or False: Confucius emphasized the importance of community over the individual.
True.
What is the Confucian stance on self-reflection?
Self-reflection is essential for personal growth and understanding one’s place in society.
Fill in the blank: Confucius taught that __________ should precede all actions.
thoughtfulness.
Multiple Choice: What is the ultimate goal of Confucianism?
A) Personal fame B) Social harmony C) Economic success D) Political power
What is the role of ‘education’ in Confucianism?
Education is viewed as a means to cultivate virtue and enhance moral character.
True or False: Confucius’s teachings have had a lasting impact on Chinese culture and society.
True.
What does Confucius say about the importance of good governance?
Good governance is based on ethical leadership and moral example.
Fill in the blank: Confucius believed that the __________ is the foundation of a stable society.
family.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following best describes Confucius’s view on human nature?
A) Innately evil B) Innately good C) A blank slate D) Unknowable
What is the significance of ‘propriety’ in Confucian thought?
Propriety governs behavior and ensures respect in social interactions.
True or False: Confucius believed that anyone could become a ‘junzi’ through education and self-cultivation.
True.
What does the term ‘xue’ refer to in Confucianism?
It means ‘learning’ or ‘study’.
Fill in the blank: The teachings of Confucius are often associated with __________ ethics.
humanistic.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a key aspect of Confucian education?
A) Memorization B) Critical thinking C) Physical training D) Vocational skills
What is the effect of Confucianism on family structure?
It promotes respect for elders and emphasizes family loyalty.
True or False: Confucius believed in the importance of personal relationships for societal stability.
True.
What is ‘dao’ in the context of Confucianism?
The path or way that one should follow in life.
Fill in the blank: __________ is viewed as a critical virtue in Confucianism that governs interpersonal relationships.
Ren.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following statements is true about Confucius?
A) He lived in the 21st century B) He was a political leader C) He was a teacher and philosopher D) He was a military general
What is the significance of ‘self-cultivation’ in Confucianism?
It is the process of improving oneself morally and intellectually.
True or False: Confucius advocated for individualism over collectivism.
False.
What does ‘xiao’ represent in Confucian thought?
Filial piety or respect for one’s parents and ancestors.
Fill in the blank: Confucius emphasized the importance of __________ in maintaining social harmony.
education.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following virtues is associated with righteousness in Confucianism?
A) Li B) Ren C) Yi D) Xiao
What is the role of government according to Confucianism?
To be a moral guide and to promote the welfare of the people.
True or False: Confucius’s teachings have been influential in other East Asian cultures.
True.
What does ‘wen’ signify in Confucian philosophy?
It refers to culture, education, and the arts.
Fill in the blank: Confucius believed that __________ should be the basis of all social interactions.
respect.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a key principle of Confucian ethics?
A) Self-interest B) Harmony C) Conflict D) Isolation
What is the ultimate aim of Confucian teachings?
To create a just and harmonious society.
True or False: Confucius believed that moral education should start in childhood.
True.
What is the role of ‘civility’ in Confucian thought?
Civility is essential for maintaining respect and order in society.
Fill in the blank: Confucius’s teachings emphasize the importance of __________ in leadership.
moral integrity.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a central theme in Confucianism?
A) Individual freedom B) Social responsibility C) Material wealth D) Military power
What does Confucius say about the importance of community?
Community is vital for personal development and social harmony.
True or False: Confucius advocated for the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake.
False.
What is ‘yi’ in Confucianism?
It refers to righteousness or justice.
Fill in the blank: Confucius believed that __________ is essential for ethical leadership.
wisdom.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a ‘junzi’?
A) Selfishness B) Integrity C) Honor D) Responsibility
What does Confucius teach about the role of the individual in society?
Each individual has a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of society.
True or False: Confucius’s ideas have been rejected in modern times.
False.
What is the significance of ‘rituals’ in Confucianism?
Rituals help to reinforce social norms and values.
Fill in the blank: The teachings of Confucius encourage __________ in personal relationships.
honesty.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following best describes Confucian education?
A) Holistic B) Rigid C) Vocational D) Theoretical
What is the role of ‘moral example’ in Confucian leadership?
Leaders should exemplify the virtues they wish to instill in others.
