The Analects of Confucius

'The Analects of Confucius' has had the most profound effect on Chinese Society, and influenced much of S. E. Asia. The book was not written by Confucius, but by his disciples some 30 to 50 years after the Master's death in 479 BCE. However, the main arguments are undoubtedly those of Confucius himself. Self-improvement is the essence of Confucian thought: one must cultivate 'ren', (empathy), the five main qualities of which are liberality, trustworthiness, respect, earnestness and kindness. Mastering these, one becomes a 'junzi' or Prince of Virtue, setting an example which others will follow to produce a peaceful and just society.