Here is the synopsis of our sample research paper on RITUAL AND RIGHTEOUSNESS: CONFUCIOUS
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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
This 5 page paper discusses the Confucian theory of LI, or ritual as the basis or foundation for a society. Examples given from Confucius' Analects. Explanation of the concept given and parallels drawn from modern societies rules and rituals. Bibliography lists 2 sources.
Page Count:
5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: D0_MBconfus.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
society. If any of these elements were not present, then a community, or nation would falter. While the two components were Li and Jen, it can be said that Li
is the bedrock of Confucian theory and philosophy. To everything there must be order, Confucius seems to be stating with his ritual philosophy of li. Li seems to be based
on the idea that one must analyze examples from the past to tailor ones present behavior. This can be applied to something as simple as always washing ones hands before
a meal, to the rituals celebrating the birth of a child. Li, therefore, is a system of behavior. Through the practice of Li, a community would bond with one
another in a shared history and memory which would create a common ground on which that society could function. Also, when one stops to think about it, ritual, or the
act of performing ritual cannot be faked or deceptive. For example, one may be throwing a birthday party for a friend. While going through the inevitable ritual of blowing
out candles, opening presents, cutting the cake, etc...it is this sense of belonging and well wishing that results from the ritual. This, then is Li in action. This can also
be applied to laws. One obeys the traffic signals. This is because to do so promotes safety, but it is also a most efficient way to move large numbers of
people from point A to point B. Li works in much the same way. The vehicle of Li moves a society from chaos to organization. Therefore, it is not only
a guide for actions and communication among a society, but it provides a moral framework for interacting with ones fellow human being.
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