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Confucius’s Birthday
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The traditional date given for Confucius’s birthday is September 28, 551 BC (BCE). This great Chinese philosopher’s birthday is celebrated in Taiwan as Teachers’ Day, because Confucius was a master educator; on this day many Taiwanese students bring their teachers flowers, cards, or small gifts.
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Confucius was brought up in poverty by his hard-working mother after his warrior father died, but he ended up being one of the most influential thinkers and philosophers in the world.
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Confucius encouraged his disciples (students or followers) to think deeply for themselves rather than just follow rules. He believed in the perfectibility of individuals and society.
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Confucius taught one of the earliest known versions of what is known as the Golden Rule (long before Jesus lived and taught). Confucius’s version is sometimes called the Silver Rule:
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Never impose on others what you would not choose for yourself.
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More simply stated, “Don’t do to others what you do not want done to yourself.”
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Confucius taught a lot of philosophy—not just on matters of ethics, but also on politics and social organization.
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Some people treat Confucianism as a religion, but others argue it is more of a life philosophy that can be combined with any or no religious tradition.
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Learn more about Confucius!
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Check out Kidipede or Kids Philosophy Slam. The latter includes some great quotes, discussion questions, and further links.
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