Confucius lived in a time of violence and
suffering.  Elites and merchants ruled the world (seeking
wealth and power).  He responded by looking back to ancient
writings and beliefs from peaceful societies.  The rest of
his life was spent teaching the path to peace.

Here we are 2400 years later facing similar problems.
Are the teachings of Confucius still applicable?  Here
is what he said:

 * A families love is worth more than wealth and power.
 * Respect elders and others.  Treat others as we
   would like to be treated.
 * Education and ritual (cultural habits?) are the tools
   for positive change.
 * Change begins with an individual and that should be
   the goal of education (developing the superior person
   not job training).

His teachings include lots of detailed guidance which
may not fit todays world very well, but the basic ideas
have been rediscovered over and over.  Most religions
and deep thinkers accept these ideas.

Can we prove these ideas work?  If they do work then why
are they ignored?

jeff

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