Confucian Wisdom: Prioritizing Righteousness Over Profit
4·16 The Master said, “The superior man understands what is right; the inferior man understands what is profitable.”
[Translation]
Confucius said, “The superior man understands what is right; the inferior man only knows what is profitable.”
[Commentary]
“The gentleman understands righteousness, the petty man understands gain” is a saying from Confucius’ teachings that has had a great influence on later generations and has been passed down by word of mouth. This clearly raises the issue of righteousness and gain. Confucius believed that gain should be subordinate to righteousness, and that one should value righteousness over gain. His righteousness refers to the morality of obeying the hierarchical order. If one blindly pursues personal gain, one will commit treason and destroy the hierarchical order. Therefore, those who pursue personal gain are considered petty men. After the development of Confucianism in later generations, this idea became a sharp opposition between righteousness and profit, and a view of righteousness and profit that is either one or the other.
Confucius’ teachings highlight a clear contrast between two ways of thinking. Righteousness, according to Confucius, is rooted in morality and the adherence to societal and familial hierarchies. It is about doing what is right, even if it is not immediately beneficial or profitable. On the other hand, profit is associated with personal gain and material wealth, often pursued at the expense of ethical considerations.
In contemporary terms, righteousness can be likened to ethical business practices, integrity, and social responsibility. Profit, while necessary for survival and growth, should not come at the cost of one’s moral compass. This balance between righteousness and profit is crucial for sustainable success and long-term happiness.
The Gentleman vs. the Petty Man
Confucius’ concept of the superior man (gentleman) and the inferior man (petty man) offers a framework for understanding personal character and societal roles. The gentleman is someone who acts with integrity, places the well-being of others and society above personal gain, and upholds moral principles. The petty man, however, is driven by self-interest, often disregarding ethical considerations in the pursuit of profit.
In today’s business world, this dichotomy can be observed in the contrast between companies that prioritize corporate social responsibility and those that focus solely on maximizing shareholder value. Businesses that embrace ethical practices and consider the broader impact of their actions are often more respected and sustainable in the long run.
The Relevance of Confucian Values Today
The teachings of Confucius, though ancient, remain profoundly relevant. In a global economy where the pursuit of profit can sometimes overshadow ethical considerations, Confucian values remind us of the importance of righteousness. Whether in personal life or business, prioritizing what is right over what is profitable can lead to more meaningful and lasting success.
Confucius’ wisdom encourages individuals and organizations to reflect on their values and motivations. It prompts a reassessment of what it means to be successful and how that success is achieved. By fostering a culture of integrity and ethical behavior, we can create a more just and harmonious society.