孔子与苏格拉底生平精选.ppt

Confucius and Socrates --- Life and Deeds Both Confucius and Socrates lived in cultures where hereditary（世袭的） privilege was the main factor in social status. Neither of them was extremely high-born, but they certainly were not peasants either. Confucius as one of the many lower aristocrats（贵族）was just high enough where he would be considered as a possible official in the government, but not enough that he was automatically given a position. Due to his economic circumstances, he spent some time working with his hands and in business. Socrates was a citizen, but neither was he related to a ruling family. He probably worked as a stone-mason（泥瓦匠）; he fought in battle not as an officer, but as a citizen soldier. Both apparently received an education as they became very familiar with the literature and music of their cultures. It is doubtful they could have become the educators they did, if they had not been born in circumstances where they could be educated. Neither one seemed to have an especially significant teacher, but they both related to an ideal pattern, sometimes exemplified by the ancients. Their admiration for the classical writings of their cultures and their extensive knowledge of them indicates deep and prolonged study. Confucius spent some time playing music, and Socrates set some fables to music while in prison due to guidance from a dream. Not having been in the highest class probably was a major factor in preventing an active and powerful political life. Socrates intentionally stayed out of politics due to his spiritual guidance, but did become an advisor and teacher to some who did engage in political leadership. Similarly, Confucius although he tried to become politically effective, served mainly as an advisor and educator of politicians. However, his efforts in this area did make Confucius more involved in government than Socrates’ incidental（偶然的，附带的） services as a citizen. Both men were attracted to the human culture of ci