Quotes on Confucianism

Earnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.

When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.

The man who in view of gain thinks of righteousness; who in the view of danger is prepared to give up his life; and who does not forget an old agreement however far back it extends - such a man may be reckoned a complete man.

Without an acquaintance with the rules of propriety, it is impossible for the character to be established

Those who know the TRUTH are not equal to those who love it.

To see what is right and not to do it is want of courage, or of principle.

What the superior man seeks is in himself; what the small man seeks is in others.

The superior man, when resting in safety, does not forget that danger may come.

When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.

The superior man, when resting in safety, does not forget that danger may come. When in a state of security he does not forget the possibility of ruin. When all is orderly, he does not forget that disorder may come. Thus his person is not endangered, and his States and all their clans are preserved.

Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous.

Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue.

I will not be concerned at other men's not knowing me;I will be concerned at my own want of ability.

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.

Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.

Without feelings of respect, what is there to distinguish men from beasts?

Study the past if you would define the future. --CONFUCIUS

Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.

Choose a career you love and you will never have to go to work.

I have not seen a person who loved virtue, or one who hated what was not virtuous. He who loved virtue would esteem nothing above it.

Is virtue a thing remote? I wish to be virtuous, and lo! Virtue is at hand.