Ted Ed: Who was Confucius? - Bryan W. Van Norden

Who was Confucius?

• A famous Chinese general
• A Chinese philosopher and educator.

• A renowned poet from Japan
• An ancient Greek mathematician

What was Confucius's early life marked by?

• Poverty and the death of his father.

• A life of luxury and comfort.
• A focus on military training and strategy.
• Wealth and a privileged upbringing.

Confucius believed that human character was formed in the ​ (a)  

• family
• government
• market
• school

Why did Confucius resign from his advisory role in government?

• He was unhappy with a ruler's immorale behavior

• He wanted to become a teacher

• He was forced to leave for enjoying the company of dancing girls

• He found a better job with a higher salary

What did Confucius advise rulers to avoid?

• Excessive generosity
• Tyranny and harsh punishments
• Indecision and inaction
• Strict adherence to tradition

How did Confucius believe rulers should govern?

• through harsh laws

• by virtue of their ethical charisma

• by having a strong army

• by accumulating larg sums of wealth

How did Confucius view the relationship between family and state duties?

• Family duties are less important

• They are equally important

• Fathers and sons should protect one each other

• State duties always come first

What are "The Analects"?

• A collection of poems

• A book of Confucius's sayings

• A historical account of Confucius's life

• A military strategy guide

What advice did Confucius give regarding how to treat others?

• “That nature only is good when it shall not do unto another whatever is not good for its own self.”

• "Do not inflict upon others that which you yourself would not want."

• “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

• “What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor.”

Answer explanation

While all the answre choices sound similiar, only the correct answer comes from Confucius.

The others come from other religions but mean similiar things: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” comes from the Bible Matthew 7:12.

“What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor.” Comes from the Jewish Talmud

“That nature only is good when it shall not do unto another whatever is not good for its own self.” comes from Zoroaster

How long ago did Confucius live?

• About 1,000 years ago
• About 3,000 years ago
• About 2,500 years ago
• About 500 years ago