Confucius on the Fear of the Younger Generation: A Lesson in Progress

9·23 The Master said, “Young people are to be feared. How do we know that the next generation will not be as good as the present one? If at forty or fifty years of age one is still unknown, then there is nothing to fear.”

【Translation】

Confucius said, “Young people are to be feared. How do we know that the next generation will not be as good as the present one? If at forty or fifty years of age one is still unknown, then there is nothing to fear.”

[Analysis]

This means that “the green is better than the blue” and “the later generation will surpass the former generation.” Society is developing and humanity is advancing. The later generation will definitely surpass the former generation. This concept of the present being better than the past is correct, and it shows that Confucius’ thinking was not entirely conservative.

Confucius, one of China’s most esteemed philosophers, has often been perceived as a proponent of traditional values and a steadfast critic of change. However, his insights offer a nuanced understanding of the evolving nature of society and the importance of respecting younger generations. In a thought-provoking passage, Confucius states:

“Young people are to be feared. How do we know that the next generation won’t surpass the current one? If, by the age of forty or fifty, one is still unnoticed, there is nothing to be feared.”

This statement reflects a profound perspective on generational change and progress. Confucius acknowledges that the youth are capable of surpassing their predecessors. This view aligns with the concept that each generation builds upon the achievements and failures of the previous one. The phrase “青出于蓝而胜于蓝” (which translates to “the blue comes from the indigo but is bluer than the indigo”) emphasizes that the new generation often surpasses the old one, just as a younger wave pushes the older one away.

The idea that “the Yangtze River’s back waves push forward the front waves” suggests that progress is inherent in societal evolution. Confucius’ reflection on the possibility of the younger generation surpassing the older one illustrates his recognition of the dynamic nature of human advancement. This concept underscores a departure from the idea that the past is always superior to the present. Instead, it highlights the potential for the future to be greater than the past.

In essence, Confucius’ perspective on the younger generation serves as a reminder that societal progress is inevitable and should be embraced rather than feared. The continuous development and improvement of each generation are integral to human progress. Therefore, rather than clinging to outdated notions, it is essential to support and learn from the younger generation, acknowledging that they might lead us to new heights of achievement and understanding.

By recognizing and valuing the contributions of younger generations, we align with Confucius’ broader view that societal growth and improvement are part of a natural and beneficial process. This lesson remains relevant today, encouraging us to embrace change and recognize the potential within each new generation to surpass the achievements of those who came before them.