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  22级5班苏义博 • 11-28

   

  a) What is freedom? Kant’s interpretation and Confucius’s idea of propriety

   

  Kant’s definition of freedom:

  Kant defines freedom as the autonomy of the will, which means acting according to self-imposed moral laws rather than external influences or internal impulses. Freedom, for Kant, is not the absence of constraints but the ability to act in accordance with reason and moral duty, grounded in the categorical imperative: Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.

   

  Confucius’s idea of propriety (Li):

  Confucius emphasized Li (ritual or propriety) as the framework for harmonious social interactions and self-cultivation. Li regulates emotions and behaviors, guiding individuals to act in accordance with societal norms and moral expectations. For Confucius, propriety is not merely external but a means of internalizing virtues such as respect, humility, and righteousness.

   

  Comparison:

  While Kant’s imperative focuses on universal moral law, Confucius’s Li focuses on context-sensitive behaviors that promote harmony in human relationships. Both, however, require individuals to transcend instinctive desires and subject their actions to rational or moral principles. For Kant, freedom is realized in moral self-legislation, while for Confucius, freedom is achieved by aligning personal actions with the broader moral order of society.

   

  b) Kant’s definition of “rational capacity” and its relation to Confucian humanity

   

  Kant on rational capacity:

  Kant sees human rationality as the capacity for moral reasoning, enabling individuals to discern and act upon universal moral laws. This rationality underpins human dignity and the notion of individuals as ends in themselves, not merely means to an end.

   

  Confucian influence on Chinese humanity:

  Confucian rationality is deeply tied to human relationships and the cultivation of virtues. It emphasizes ethical reasoning within specific social contexts, promoting values like filial piety, loyalty, and benevolence. Confucian rationality is practical, aimed at achieving harmony within the family and society.

   

  Similarities and differences between Western and Confucian rationality:

   

      •    Similarities: Both traditions emphasize the role of reason in transcending base instincts and achieving a higher moral purpose. They value ethical deliberation and moral self-improvement.

      •    Differences:

      •    Western rationality (Kant) is abstract and universal, seeking moral laws applicable to all individuals regardless of context.

      •    Confucian rationality is relational and contextual, focusing on the nuances of specific relationships and cultural practices.

   

  Addressing Bertrand Russell’s critique of Confucius as “inhuman”

   

  Russell critiques Confucius for prioritizing social structure and propriety over individual spontaneity, potentially suppressing the “free spirit” of humanity. However, such a critique may overlook the Confucian perspective that true freedom lies in disciplined self-cultivation and harmonious relationships, rather than unchecked emotional expression. In this sense, Confucius does not contradict humanity but redefines it as a balance between instinct and moral order.

   

  Confucianism, like Kantian ethics, sees freedom as the alignment of individual will with a higher moral standard—whether through propriety or universal law. Both philosophies, though distinct, aim to elevate humanity through reason and virtue, rather than reduce it to mere instinct or emotion.

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  7班孙秸檥 • 11-28

    For Kant, freedom is the ability to act according to self - given moral laws, independent of external coercion or the determination of natural desires. It is closely related to the concept of the categorical imperative. The categorical imperative is a moral principle that commands actions that are objectively necessary without reference to other ends.Propriety (Li) in Confucianism involves a set of norms and behaviors that are considered appropriate in different social contexts. It is about how individuals should conduct themselves in society to maintain harmonious social relations. For example, in the Analects, there are descriptions of how one should behave in the presence of elders, in ceremonies, and in daily interactions.

     For Kant, rational capacity is the ability of human beings to use reason to understand the world and to formulate moral principles. Reason allows individuals to go beyond mere instincts and sensory experiences. Pure reason helps us understand the nature of knowledge and metaphysical concepts such as space, time, and causality. 

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  2班钟兰 • 11-28

  Immanuel Kant defines freedom as autonomy, the capacity to act according to universal moral laws that one gives to oneself. For Kant, true freedom is not the absence of constraints but the ability to act in accordance with the moral law, which is a product of reason. 

   Confucius's concept of propriety is a set of social norms and rituals that guide individuals in their behavior towards others, ensuring harmony and order in society. 

   Both Confucius and Kant see a form of freedom in adherence to moral principles. For Confucius, propriety is not a restriction but a guide to moral conduct, which aligns with Kant's view of acting according to the categorical imperative.

  In both philosophies, there is an emphasis on the importance of moral action over arbitrary or instinctual behavior. The freedom they speak of is not the freedom to do as one pleases, but the freedom to act in a way that is morally right and contributes to the greater good.

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  4班袁馨 • 11-28

  a）

  Kant’s Freedom:

  Kant defines freedom as the ability to act according to rational principles, not just the absence of constraints. True freedom aligns with moral law and involves acting according to the categorical imperative, which means only doing what can be universalized without contradiction.

  Confucius’s Propriety:

  Confucius emphasizes "li" (ritual and proper conduct) as a means to harmonize society and cultivate personal virtue."Li" is not just a set of rules but a way to promote social order and moral development.

  Comparison:

  Both Confucius and Kant see freedom as acting according to higher principles. Confucius’s "li" guides ethical behavior to achieve social harmony, similar to how Kant’s categorical imperative guides moral actions based on rational principles.

   

  b) 

  Kant’s Rational Capacity:

  Kant defines rational capacity as the ability to think and act according to reason, including formulating and following moral laws, making logical judgments, and acting autonomously.

  Confucian Influence on Chinese Humanity:

  Confucianism emphasizes ethical conduct, social harmony, and personal cultivation. Virtues like benevolence (ren) and righteousness (yi) promote social order and individual moral development.

   

  Similarities and Differences:

  Similarities:*Both emphasize ethical behavior and the use of reason to guide actions.

  Differences:

  Focus:Western rationality (Kant) focuses on individual autonomy and universal principles. Confucian rationality focuses on social context and relational roles.

  Principles: Kant’s rationality is based on abstract principles like the categorical imperative. Confucian rationality is expressed through concrete practices and rituals (li).

   

  Conclusion:

  While "li" may seem restrictive, it is aimed at promoting social harmony and personal virtue, not inhumanity. Confucius’s ideas, like Kant’s, are rooted in a deep concern for ethical behavior and social well-being. Therefore, the suggestion that Confucius is in line with inhumanity is a misinterpretation.

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  4班李子毅 • 11-28

  a）

    1. Kant saw freedom as the opposite of Autonomy and Heteronomy. Autonomy is acting according to the laws that one sets for oneself, while heteronomy is acting according to desires or impulses that one has not chosen. Kant emphasized that true freedom is the ability to transcend desire and act according to the laws of reason.

    2.The Confucian rite is a social and personal norm.Etiquette is not merely an external rule, but the embodiment of internal cultivation, which requires the individual to play an appropriate role in society in order to achieve harmony.  Both emphasize norms of conduct, but Confucius focuses more on social harmony and Kant on individual self-discipline.

   

  b） 

    1. Kant believes that human rational ability is the ability to recognize and follow universal laws. 

    2. Confucian rationality emphasizes moral cultivation and social practice. It holds that reason is not only a tool to understand the world, but also the key to achieve personal moral perfection and social harmony.

    3. Kantian reason is more focused on abstract moral laws and individual self-discipline. Confucian rationality pays more attention to practice and interpersonal relations, emphasizing the harmony between individuals and society through etiquette.

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  4班李杭珏 • 11-28

  a) Freedom according to Kant and relation to Confucius's propriety
    1.Kant's view of freedom: Freedom for Kant is acting per reason and moral law, independently of external coercion, not unrestrained desire - fulfilling.
    2.Confucius's propriety: Emphasized propriety (Li) for harmonious social relations, guiding human nature, like Kant's moral law guiding freedom.
    3.Comparison with Kant's imperative duty: Kant's categorical imperative commands universalizable actions. Confucius's propriety, like it, provides rules for a harmonious social order. E.g., lying vs. propriety - disrupting actions.
  b) Kant's rational capacity and Confucian influence on Chinese humanity
    1.Kant's definition: Humans have the ability to use reason for moral decisions.
    2.Confucian influence: Confucian values like benevolence guided Chinese behavior. Seen from Kantian view, it guides using rational capacity in society.
    3.Similarities and differences:
        1.Similarities: Both recognize reason's role in moral decisions for social order.
        2.Differences: Western rationality emphasizes individual autonomy and universal moral laws abstractly. Confucian rationality is more in social - family context.
  The idea of Confucius being inhumane as per Bertrand Russell is a misinterpretation as his teachings aimed at harmonious human relations and moral society.

   

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  5班左广燕 • 11-28

  ⑴Freedom & Duty: Kant perceives freedom as acting autonomously based on rational principles, akin to Confucius' concept of propriety (Li), aiming for harmonious and virtuous actions within social contexts.

  ⑵Human Rationality: Kant underscores the distinct human capability to make moral distinctions, influencing how we perceive Confucian contributions to Chinese humanity, focusing on virtue and rational thought.

  ⑶Comparative Rationality: Both Western and Confucian perspectives highlight the use of reason in ethical decision-making, yet differ in their emphasis on individualism vs. collectivism, respectively, reflecting varied approaches to balancing personal conduct within societal roles.

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  甄娅琳 • 11-28

  a)For Kant, freedom is to act freely and act according to a law we give to ourselves. This is similar to Confucius's idea of propriety. But I think for confucius, propriety is also to keep peace and maintain hierarchy in his times. So there is some difference between Confucius's propriety and kant's freedom.

  b) Kant thinks that rational capacity is not the desires.  Human should choose something according to the law we give to ourselves. Confucius also agree with this idea.

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  5班何艳珍 • 11-28

  a) 

  Kant’s Freedom：Kant defines freedom as acting according to one's rational will, guided by self-imposed moral laws.

  Confucius’s Propriety (Li)：Confucius emphasizes rituals or propriety) to achieve social harmony and moral development, reflecting inner virtues like respect and loyalty.

  Comparison:

  Both advocate universal principles.

  Both stress rationality and moral reasoning.

  Both value autonomous action, though Confucius also emphasizes social roles.

  b) Kant’s Definition of Human’s “Rational Capacity”

  Rational Capacity:

  Kant defines it as the ability to think and act according to reason, including moral judgment.

  Confucian Influence:

  Confucianism promotes rational thinking and moral behavior, emphasizing virtue cultivation and social harmony.

  Western vs. Confucian Rationality:

  Universal vs. Contextual: Western rationality is universal; Confucian rationality is context-specific.

  Autonomy vs. Harmony: Kant focuses on individual autonomy; Confucius focuses on community harmony.

  Moral Law vs. Virtue Ethics: Kant follows universal moral laws; Confucius cultivates virtues and practices li.

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  6班李乐 • 11-28

  a)

  Kant views freedom as acting by self - imposed moral laws. Confucius' propriety aims at harmonious co - existence. It's like Kant's imperative duty, guiding behavior. Propriety doesn't suppress but directs human nature towards harmony within a moral framework, thus not conflicting with freedom.

  b)

  Kant defines "rational capacity" as using reason for moral actions. Confucianism influences Chinese humanity with moral and social values. Western rationality focuses on individual reasoning and objective analysis. Confucian rationality centers on moral and social relations. Both use reason for guidance. But Confucian rationality emphasizes social ethics and family values more, while the West focuses on individual rights and scientific thinking.

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  7班陈丽霖 • 11-28

  Freedom, in Kant's interpretation, refers to the ability to act in accordance with one's own will, unconstrained by external forces, while adhering to inner moral laws. When we consider Confucius's emphasis on propriety (Li), it bears some resemblance to Kant's concept of imperative duty. Both emphasize a sense of obligation and constraint within one's actions. Confucius's propriety advocates for a harmonious social order through the regulation of individual behaviors, which, in a way, reflects a kind of moral imperative, akin to Kant's emphasis on duty as the foundation of moral behavior. However, Confucius's idea of propriety is rooted in social harmony and respect for tradition, whereas Kant's imperative duty stems from universal moral principles.

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  申友情 • 11-28

          The rites of Confucius are not contrary to human natutre,and are not an absolute restricition on people.Confucius's rites have three menaings,etiquette,hierarchy and sincerely and also appropriate.The rites of Confucius are not anti-human,but a guide for people to do the right thing,so that people can use their "freedom"right.

        Kant thinks that the freedom is the opposite of necessity,and he thinks that freedom is the autonomy,which is to act freely,to act according to a law I give myself.In other words,Kant believes that freedom is not following the desires of one's own animal,but acting outside of those desires.

       Both Kant and Confucius emphasizedbover the importance of their own ideas.Confucius believed that people should follow the right moral ideas to do things,and Kant believed that people should look for ideas other than their real desires.

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  5班胡程雯 • 11-28

  a）Kant's view of freedom emphasizes that moral freedom is a kind of self-discipline, that is, to legislate for oneself. Confucius's "self-denial" can be understood from a similar perspective. For Kant, freedom is not to act recklessly, but to act according to the moral laws of the heart. Confucius's "self-denial" is like this process of self-discipline. "Self-denial" requires individuals to restrain their desires and impulses that do not conform to etiquette, which is similar to Kant's idea of using reason to restrain emotional impulses. By constraining themselves, individuals make their behavior conform to the norms of rites, which is a manifestation of self-domination. Therefore, it is comparable

  b）The reasonal capacity is the power to opposite to the laws of nature.

  The shaping of Chinese human nature by "restoring self-righteousness" is mainly reflected in the following aspects. In terms of self-restraint, the concept of "self-denial" is deeply rooted in the hearts of the Chinese people, so that they pay attention to restraining their desires. It makes people understand that they can not only be dominated by instinct and selfish desires, but can exercise self-control in the face of material temptations and other situations. For example, in the consumption behavior, many people will consider whether it is in line with the principle of moderation, rather than unlimited satisfaction of desire.

  Kant's concept of freedom emphasizes individual self-discipline and the universality of moral law, and holds that true freedom lies in following internal moral law. Confucius' concept of freedom is more embodied in moral practice and social norms, emphasizing social harmony through self-restraint. Although they differ in definition and content, both emphasize the importance of moral self-discipline and social norms in achieving freedom.

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  7班唐晓雨 • 11-28

  Confucius's "Li": "Li" is to cultivate an individual's moral character through external behavioral norms and to achieve social stability and harmony. It emphasizes that by following "Li", people can restrain their own inappropriate desires and behaviors and establish a hierarchical and orderly social structure. For example, in a family, filial piety as a part of "Li" helps to maintain the stability of family relationships.

  Kant's "Freedom": Kant's concept of freedom aims to enable individuals to have moral autonomy and to be able to make decisions that are in line with objective and universal moral principles. The function is to make individuals become the legislators of moral laws through their own rationality and to ensure that moral behavior is not affected by external factors such as utilitarianism or coercion.

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    05杨玉盈 • 11-28

    a) Freedom is autonomy, which means acting freely and acting according to a law I give to myself. Both Kant and Confucius believe that there are some inherent rules we should obey, which are set by the humanity or society. b) Kant thinks that rational capacity is that one can overcomes his or her primitive desires of natural necessities and act autonomously. Confucius raise the idea of Li, which gives Chinese instruction to achieve appropriety. Western rationality emphasizes inhibition of natural desires while Chinese rationality allows people to follow their nature.

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  3班朱玥 • 11-28

  a) Freedom is autonomy, which means acting freely and acting according to a law I give to myself. Both

  Kant and Confucius believe that there are some inherent rules we should obey, which are set by the humanity or society.

  b) Kant thinks that rational capacity is that one can overcomes his or her primitive desires of natural necessities and act autonomously. Confucius raise the idea of Li, which gives Chinese instruction to achieve appropriety. Western rationality emphasizes inhibition of natural desires while Chinese rationality allows people to follow their nature.

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  05杨玉盈 • 11-28

  回答在上面

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  6班张景义 • 11-28

  a) Kant's understanding of freedom emphasizes autonomy, which is acting according to laws that one has chosen oneself, rather than heteronomy, which involves acting according to laws or desires that one has not chosen. Confucius's concept of propriety can be seen as a social norm that requires individuals to act according to certain laws within society, which is similar to Kant's heteronomy. However, Confucius's propriety also emphasizes achieving moral autonomy through self-cultivation, which resonates with Kant's autonomy. Therefore, both Confucius's propriety and Kant's moral laws require individuals to follow norms while achieving self-legislation and self-restraint.

  b) Kant's "rational capacity" refers to the ability of individuals to legislate for themselves and act according to universal laws. In Confucian thought, rational capacity focuses more on the responsibilities and roles of individuals within society and the family. Western rationality emphasizes individual autonomy and critical thinking, while Confucian rationality emphasizes harmony and responsibility within society. Both value rationality, but they differ in application and focus.

   

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  6班周姿君 • 11-28

  Kant commented that theoretical reason is "insignificant" in relation to practical reason (i.e. moral practice).It can be seen that Kant also emphasizes moral practice more than theory.Kantian morality is based on pure reason, which is the first strict moral system established in accordance with logical method in human history, and makes up for the deficiency of Western moral reason based on theological belief for thousands of years. This is a very great contribution, and also an important reason for the enduring popularity of Kantian philosophy.

  Kant's morality, only talking about the starting point, not the interest, the requirements are very high, difficult to achieve. In the words of Confucius, this is the gentleman's self-seeking, self-examination has not achieved "gentle, courteous and thrifty"; As for the interests and not, "wealth in the day." When it was necessary to make a choice between "not allowed" and "gentle, courteous and thrifty", Confucius advocated the latter. Those who do not want to be gentlemen do not need to be so, the benefits that theoretical reason can get here are very obvious. But fools are blessed, and gentlemen are not unlucky, and Confucius and Kant clearly did not think that being a gentleman was a bad option. Obviously, there is an implicit premise of "faith." From Confucius and Kant we can get: interest is not in the consideration of practical reason, but therefore practical reason is not anti-interest; Theoretical reason can be beneficial, but it is often immoral.

  Confucius's morality of the mean is relatively easy to achieve. First of all, Confucius paid attention to reason (etiquette) while taking into account sensibility (filial kindness), which met the emotional needs of human beings. Second, while speaking of benevolence, Confucius also affirmed the basic needs of human nature. Such as "eat men and women, man's great desire to remain!" "Rich and valuable, is the desire of people; If you don't follow the way, you won't get anywhere. Poor and cheap, is the evil of people; If you do not follow the way, you will not go."

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  3班甘叶娜 • 11-28

  （1）The freedom advocated by Confucius is not absolute freedom or unlimited individual freedom in the modern sense. On the contrary, it is the freedom to seek unity between personal development and social harmony within the framework of propriety. This view of freedom emphasizes that individuals realize self-perfection and personality improvement under the premise of following social norms and moral standards.

  Confucius' and Kant's rites are comparable in many aspects, mainly embodied in the pursuit of moral universality, self-discipline and freedom, as well as harmony and order. ‌
  Universality of morality
  Confucius' "Do not do to others what you would not have done to yourself", which emphasizes respect for others and the universal application of morality, is similar to Kant's "moral imperative" or "moral law", which emphasizes the universality and absolutism of moral law.
  Self-discipline and freedom
  Kant believed that true freedom lies in following an internal moral law, namely the self-discipline of the individual. Confucius also emphasizes self-discipline, such as "do not do to others what you do not want to do to yourself" and "rehabilitate yourself", both emphasize individual self-restraint and moral self-discipline 
  Harmony and order
  Confucius' "Li" is not only an external code of conduct, but also emphasizes inner sincerity and respect for others, aiming at maintaining social order and harmony. Kantian philosophy also seeks an inner harmony and balance, which is similar to Confucius' idea of maintaining social harmony and order through "rites"

  Specific application and practice
  Confucius emphasized the application of "rites" at the individual, family and social levels. By observing etiquette norms, we can cultivate good moral character and behavior habits, achieve inner harmony and self-improvement of individuals, and promote harmony and stability of families and society. Although primarily concerned with the universality and absoluteness of moral laws, Kantian philosophy also emphasizes the importance of moral practice, arguing that theoretical reason is "insignificant" in relation to practical reason.

  （2）According to Kant, people have three kinds of cognitive abilities: sensibility, understanding and reason. ‌ Sensibility is passive cognition, receiving external information through the senses ‌, such as seeing the color of a horse, lines, etc ‌. Understanding is the active capacity of cognition to form concepts and judgments ‌ by synthesizing and unifying perceptual experiences, such as "this is a horse" ‌. Reason, at its highest level, involves reasoning and thinking about transcendent things ‌, such as exploring concepts like the soul, the universe, and God ‌.
  From Kant's definition of understanding ability, ‌ Confucianism also has its unique features in understanding ability ‌. Confucianism emphasizes human self-perfection and social responsibility, which is similar to Kant's emphasis on rational autonomy and dignity. Confucianism holds that morality should be based on human nature, focusing on social order and the overall interest, which is different from Kant's emphasis on morality based on reason ‌. The concept of "Junzi" in Confucianism and Kant's concept of "good man" are similar in concept ‌, both of which emphasize human self-improvement and moral promotion ‌.

  Western rationality ‌ : Western philosophy focuses on theoretical thinking and abstract concepts. Philosophers seek truth through reasoning and argumentation, emphasizing rational thinking, scientific research, freedom, and individuality. For example, Plato's idealism antagonizes the world of reason and the world of feeling, arguing that the perceptual concrete is not real, but that there is an eternal and independent world of ideas.
  ‌ Confucian rationality ‌ : Confucianism attaches importance to practice and "human relations", and obtains development rules in practice, not confined to theoretical thinking. Confucianism emphasizes "seeking truth" and "walking with The Times", pays attention to moral behavior and social responsibility, emphasizes the "golden mean", and maintains tolerance and modesty.

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  6班刘雯妍岩 • 11-28

   He stressed affection and duty. And he stressed universal pricplesni.

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  袁小涵 • 11-28

  Kant's understanding of freedom is profound and multilayered, and can be compared and understood from the different points.

  Transcendental freedom:  It is a kind of logical existence, pointing to practical freedom.

  Practical freedom: Practical freedom refers to the freedom of the will, which can be achieved through the guidance of reason. 

  Moral freedom: Moral freedom, that is, freedom of self-discipline, is freedom from external restrictions and constraints in the moral sphere.

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  05张可馨 • 11-28

  a) Freedom, for Kant, is the ability to act according to moral law. Confucius's propriety is similar to Kant's duty in that both involve following a universal code for moral behavior. They don't conflict with freedom but provide a structure for it.

   

  b) Kant defines rational capacity as the ability to understand and act on universal principles. Confucian rationality emphasizes social harmony and moral obligations within relationships, while Western rationality focuses on abstract principles and individual autonomy. Both value reason but differ in their emphasis on individual versus collective well-being. It's incorrect to label Confucius as inhumane; his teachings promote a balanced and moral society.

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  4班罗丁铃 • 11-28

  –a)Kant views freedom as acting according to self-legislated moral laws,which is similar to Confucius's idea of propriety as a moral guide for action,both allowing for freedom within moral constraints.

   

  –b)Kant's"rational capacity"is the autonomous use of reason.Confucianism influences Chinese humanity by promoting moral rationality and social harmony,differing from Western rationality's focus on individual autonomy and critical thinking.

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  06娄娅 • 11-28

  In the realm of philosophical discourse, Immanuel Kant delineates the concepts of negative and positive freedom within the treatise "Critique of Practical Reason." Negative freedom pertains to the liberation of the will from theshackles of empirical phenomena and the dictates of natural causal agencies. Conversely, positive freedom is characterized by the autarkic regulation of the will, implying that the will is its own legislator. Kant posits that negative freedom serves as the foundational prerequisite for positive freedom, asserting that genuine self-discipline can only be achieved when the will remains impervious to external coercion.

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  5班张月儿 • 11-28

  a) For Kant, freedom is the ability to act in accordance with self - given moral laws. Confucius' propriety (Li) is not a restraint on freedom but a way to achieve harmonious social and personal order. Propriety is similar to Kant's categorical imperative in that they both provide a moral framework. Confucius' propriety guides people's behavior in a way that respects others and social norms, much like Kant's idea of acting out of a sense of duty that is universalizable. It doesn't conflict with freedom but enables a more ethical and ordered freedom.

   

  b) Kant defines human's "rational capacity" as the ability to use reason to determine moral laws. Confucianism also emphasizes the use of reason to understand and follow moral and social principles. Confucian influence on Chinese humanity promotes a sense of social harmony and moral responsibility. Western rationality often focuses on individual rights and logical deductions, while Confucian rationality centers more on social relationships and moral obligations within the context of the community. But both seek to guide human behavior through a rational understanding of moral concepts.

   

  Confucius is far from inhumane. His ideas aim to enhance human well - being and social order through moral and ritual guidance.

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  3班解天丽 • 11-28

  The "rites" of Confucius not only refers to the external etiquette norms, but also includes the internal moral cultivation and code of conduct. It emphasizes the norms of social order and individual behavior, and has had an important influence on the formation and practice of etiquette in Western society. Confucius' ritual emphasizes social harmony and individual responsibility, and believes that individual behavior should be in line with the interests of society as a whole. This kind of thinking helps western society to understand the relationship between individuals and society, and promotes the cultivation of social responsibility.

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  3班黎雨昕 • 11-28

   In discussing ​Li​ (理, often translated as "principle" or "reason"), we find intriguing parallels with Kant's concept of "freedom." For Kant, freedom entails acting according to rational principles, aligning with one's true self. Similarly, ​Li​ in Chinese philosophy emphasizes living in harmony with the natural order and cosmic principles. Both perspectives underscore the importance of self-discipline and moral autonomy. They converge on the idea that true freedom is not arbitrary but grounded in reason and universal principles.

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  raFiXxBe • 11-28

  a.

  For Kant, freedom is the ability of the will to act autonomously in accordance with moral laws. Confucius's ritual propriety serves as a guide for conduct, ensuring social harmony and respect. Both Kant's duty and Confucius's propriety emphasize acting in accordance with a higher principle, rather than personal desires. Kant's duty stems from the categorical imperative, a universal moral law, while Confucius's propriety is rooted in traditional norms and social harmony. Despite different origins, both aim to regulate behavior and promote social justice.

  b) 

  Kant defines rational capacity as the ability to reason independently and make moral judgments. From this perspective, Confucianism has deeply influenced Chinese humanity by emphasizing virtue, respect, and harmony. Western rationality, rooted in the Enlightenment, focuses on logic and scientific analysis; while Confucian rationality is more embodied in moral practice and social harmony. Both share a common goal in pursuing truth and moral perfection, but differ in methods and emphases.

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  17班唐兆航 • 11-28

  1. Kant's Concept of Freedom

   

  - For Immanuel Kant, freedom is the ability to act in accordance with the moral law that one gives to oneself. Kant's moral philosophy centers around the categorical imperative, which is a principle of action that is unconditional and necessary. The free will, according to Kant, is a will that is not determined by external factors such as desires or inclinations but is guided by the rational self - legislated moral law.

   

  2. Confucius's Concept of Propriety (Li)

   

  - Confucius emphasizes the importance of propriety (Li). Propriety is a set of social norms and ethical behaviors that regulate human relationships and individual conduct. It includes rituals, ceremonies, and codes of conduct that are meant to bring order and harmony to society. For Confucius, following propriety is a way to achieve moral excellence and social stability.

   

  3. Comparison between the Two Concepts

   

  3.1 Self - Regulation and Duty

   

  - In Kant's view, moral actions are based on the self - imposed duty of the categorical imperative. Similarly, in Confucianism, following propriety is a self - imposed moral obligation. Individuals are expected to control their behavior according to the standards of propriety, just as Kantian agents are expected to act according to the moral law.

  - For example, in Confucian society, one's behavior in a formal ceremony (such as a sacrifice or a court audience) is strictly regulated by the rules of propriety. This is comparable to Kant's idea that a moral agent should follow the moral law even in the face of contrary desires.

   

  3.2 Universality

   

  - Kant's categorical imperative has a universal nature. It implies that moral laws should be applicable to all rational beings without exception. Confucius's propriety also has a certain universality in the context of a well - ordered society. The principles of propriety are designed to apply to all members of society to maintain social harmony and ethical order.

  - For instance, the Confucian principle of respecting elders is a general rule that is expected to be followed by everyone in society, much like Kant's belief that moral laws should be binding for all rational beings.

   

  3.3 Freedom and Constraint

   

  - Kant believes that true freedom is realized through following the moral law. In a sense, the constraints of the moral law are what make freedom possible. Similarly, Confucius's propriety might seem like a set of constraints, but it is through following these norms that an individual can achieve a state of moral and social freedom.

  - For example, by knowing and following the proper way to interact with others (such as using polite language and appropriate gestures), one is free from the chaos and conflict that might arise from improper behavior. This is similar to Kant's idea that freedom lies in acting in accordance with the moral law and not being enslaved by one's own base desires.

   

  In conclusion, although Kant's and Confucius's philosophical systems have different cultural and historical backgrounds and terminologies, there are interesting parallels between Kant's concept of freedom through the categorical imperative and Confucius's emphasis on propriety as a moral and social guide.

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  19班文静 • 12-02

  Kant's freedom emphasis the importanc of personal independence in physical and mental areas which is separated from the social norms. And this kind of social principle is of importance for Confucius who advocates people should take responsibilities of society.

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