Confucianism

1) I believe that, although Confucianism was never meant to be a body of religious thought, it could be considered a religion. One definition of religion is worded, "a specific fundamental set of beliefs and 
practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects." Using this definition, Confucianism would definitely fit the standards as its beliefs and practices were followed by many.


2) I think that the reading supports that people are born neutral and must be taught properly so they will become good. One example is when it is said: "If they be led by virtue, and uniformity sought to be given them by the rules of propriety, they will have the sense of shame, and moreover will become good." This quote shows that if the people are led the right way, they will learn morals and will become good. A second quote states, "If for three years he does not alter from the way of his father, he may be called filial." This shows how people are born neutral and one consideration that goes into whether they are good or bad is depending on how they treat their elders and parents. A last example that supports people being born neutral is, "Let him advance the good and teach the incompetent." This supports that people aren't born good or bad and stuck that way because it is stating that if the incompetent, bad people are taught good morals, they will seek virtues just as diligently as good people.