"There is nothing so absurd that it has not been said by some philosopher." (Yawn.)
The yawn may or may not have been included when he made that comment. But Rome was loaded with philosophers and they had a habit of congregating on Mars Hill daily and just ... babbling. Meanwhile, on another part of planet earth ...
To contrast with a teacher from the Far East:
"3 methods to learn wisdom: by reflection, which is noblest; by imitation, which is easiest; and by experience, which is the bitterest."
Words of wisdom from one who probably lived his life as a simple common ordinary man, but who is today acknowledged by many around the world as one the world's most sensible common sense philosophers. When it comes to Confucianism, many would insist that Cicero's quote does not apply.
A brief bio-snapshot:
- Life span: About 70 years (c. 551 B.C - c. 479 B.C.)
- Born and buried in Chu-foo (or Qufu or Lu).
- Served as Public Administrator for 15 years (532 B.C. - 517 B.C.); afterward, he studied and taught the Chinese classics, and spread his philosophy.
- His sayings were published posthumously as the "Analects of Confucius".
- The Prince of Lu consecrated his home as a temple, two years after he died.
Do You Admire the Wisdom of Confucius?
I do. ☺
To practice 5 things under all circumstances constitutes perfect virtue: gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness. ~ Confucius
Image credit: Confucius Statue in Bejing, China (Wikimedia Commons)
*** Original Post, Feb 15, 2014, at TreasurePen.
