Title: Comparison of Ethics in Chinese Culture & Western Culture ——In Terms of the Mean in Confucianism and “Mesotees” of the Ancient Greeks
Abstract: Due to different geographical environments and different social and economic structures, Chinese culture and western culture show great differentia throughout human history, which is also represented in “the mean” of Confucius and “mesotees” of ancient Greeks. Based on the philosophy of “the integrity of man and nature”, “the mean” stresses the importance of individual’s moral responsibility to the group one is related to. It believes that only through selfcultivation and perfecting one’s moral integrity can the “dharma” be achieved. Ancient Greek philosophers represented by Aristotle separated man from nature, and valued freedom of individual’s will. Aristotle stated that “mesotees” could be acquired by practicing and symbolized by regulation or law. Though they are distinguishable in origin, connotation and means of achievement, both the mean and “mesotees” reflect dialectical thinking and serve to maintain a peaceful and stable society.
Publication Year: 2004
Publication Date: 2004-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
Access and Citation
AI Researcher Chatbot
Get quick answers to your questions about the article from our AI researcher chatbot