A British vlogger recently shared his understanding of "ren", the traditional Confucian concept of benevolence, finding similarities between Confucianism and Aristotelian philosophy.
With the 10th Nishan Forum on World Civilizations scheduled to kick off on the coming Wednesday in Qufu City, east China's Shandong Province, with the theme "Traditional Culture and Modern Civilization", British vlogger Jason Lightfoot recently visited the city which is the birthplace of ancient Chinese sage Confucius. He went to the Confucius Museum and the Nishan Sacred Land and shared his experience and feelings with the China Global Television Network (CGTN) in a video.
He filmed himself in front of a statue of Confucius, explaining that the height of the statue relates to Confucius' success as an educator and philosopher.
"You can see behind me this huge statue standing at 72 meters tall representing his 72 outstanding students," Lightfoot said.
"Confucius, also known as Kongzi or Kongfu Zi, is one of the most influential philosophers and educators in Chinese history. He lived during the Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history, around 551 to 479 BC, and is considered the founder of Confucianism, a philosophical and ethical system that has profoundly shaped Chinese culture and society for over two millennia," he continued.
He said that what moved him most was the unique understanding of the concept of ren (benevolence) in Confucianism. In Aristotelian philosophy, there are similar concepts, but the Confucian interpretation of the core value of ren is profound and thought-provoking, according to the vlogger.
"In humanism, 'ren' (benevolence) aligns with principles of secular humanism which emphasizes the value of dignity and every individual and the importance of human welfare. Humanists advocate for compassion, empathy and mutual respect among people, which resonates with the Confucian ideal of 'ren'. Also, in Aristotle's Virtue Ethics, the concept of philia, which means friendship and the virtue of magnanimity, share a common ground with 'ren'. Aristotle's emphasis on cultivating virtues to achieve human flourishing parallels Confucius' focus on 'ren' as essential for personal and social harmony," Lightfoot explained.
"Confucius emphasized the importance of self-cultivation and moral development as foundational to achieving 'ren'. This involves understanding one's own virtues and flaws, striving for personal improvement and cultivating a sense of self-respect based on ethical behavior and harmonious relationships. Similarly, Western values promote self-respect through virtues like honesty, integrity and self-discipline," Lightfoot said.
Through this experience, Lightfoot said he has gained a new knowledge and understanding of Confucianism.
British vlogger's take on "ren", or benevolence, in Confucianism
