Confucius Curry and a Mountain Dew Essay -- Philosophy

As Americans, we ridicule others based on their selection of clothing. We are snobby because of how much money we make or what we hold as an occupation. We chew with our mouths full of macaroni and curse when the soda machine is out of Pepsi. We could use some manners, or maybe just a reintroduction. Confucius thought is constructed on kindness and propriety, as well as holding the morally virtuous to be the ideal person. This philosophy exceedingly expresses value in benevolence, education, and the treatment of other people, but has hidden innuendos that would knock the petals off any flower child. In this reflection paper, I will dabble with how incorporating Confucius thought and practices would help in some areas of American society, but shun the validity of others. Money Over Everything The definition of the American Dream fluctuates from person to person, but can ultimately lead to a broad basis: With hard work and dedication, one can achieve success. And with success, comes happiness. We strive for happiness. In this journey, most come to understand that a college education is the key to becoming knowledgeable, and knowledge is important in becoming successful. Therefore, going to college can lead to success, right? Not a difficult concept to grasp. With the staggering rates of tuition bills and the dwindle of job availability, it would seem the path to success narrows each day. Those with money to cover these costs aren't usually too worried about their debts, seeing as they could squash them like ants. In America, our education is highly valued, but the value of education is incredibly too high. Confucius was not around for colleges and technical institutions, so the subject matter of his teachings did not include di... ...ring 2012 Edition), Edward N. Zalta  (ed.), URL = . 3.) Dawson, Miles. "Ethics of Confucius." . sacred-texts.com, 10/2007. Web. 17 Apr 2012. . 4.) . "Philosophy 312: Oriental Philosophy Main Concepts of Confucianism." Oriental Philosophy. N.p., 09/2000. Web. 17 Apr 2012. . 5.) Richey, Jefferey. "Gender and Sexuality." Religion Library: Confucianism. Patheos, 2012. Web. 17 Apr 2012. . 6.) Fader, Hallie. "The Chinese Legal Tradition." Rule of Law: The Story of Human Rights in World History. ORIAS, 07/2004. Web. April 17 2012. .