I ended up liking Hsun Tzu quite a bit, and am sad to see he doesn’t receive as much recognition as Mencius for developing early Confucianism. But many of his teachings did indeed become fundamental to the philosophy/religion, particularly his views on education. In his work Encouraging Learning, Hsun Tzu argued for the merits of life-time study, and suggested a school curriculum for all aristocratic children. Let’s examine a bit:
1.) What distinction does Hsun Tzu draw between “thought” and “study”? Why does he privilege study over thought in education? How have your teachers emphasized “study” and “thought” differently as you have progressed through school?
The philosopher noticed that he learned far more studying others than he did in isolated contemplation. This is probably an attack on loner intellectuals who became sages by sitting alone and studying the Tao (*COUGH Siddhartha COUGH*), but he also believes it’s simply more effective. We become great by studying great men, not mentally masturbating. Ignoring the patronizing third question I’ll instead retort by positing that a mix of contemplation and study is ideal. You need to first not assume these men are great by default, and review them before you study. And after you study you must expand or improve on what you’ve learned to take it to the next step.
2.) How would you classify Hsun Tzu’s methods of supporting his argument? What kinds of support does he include? What kinds does he omit? How persuasive are his methods?
It’s essay writing, with logical points consistently supporting his thesis. He uses analogies (usually 3-5 at a time) to drive an idea home. He quotes sacred texts, history, and great men. He also repeats his thesis throughout. With the exception of appealing to authority, I find his claims very convincing and favor his style over all other ancient Chinese philosophers.
3.) Several of Hsun Tzu’s metaphors suggest that hard work and study, rather than natural ability, determine success. How is this assertion important to the overall argument? Do you agree with his assessment? Why or why not?
It gives both hope and motivation to his audience. Just because we’re fat lazy slobs doesn’t mean we can’t change, and through study and industry we too can become gentle-sages. I agree deeply, and feel it has become common knowledge today. I mean, there are still missing elements, but the core argument is on point. Widespread education has systematically improved the living standards of every person, society, and state. But even facts aside, I know from my own personal experience that burning Friday-night oil reading this crap has made me happier and a better person.
4.) According to Hsun Tzu, what should be part of the education of a gentleman? What, by implication, should not be part of such an education?
Basically studying laws, classical poetry, history, classical music, and the sages’ philosophy (with some ritual study too). So then I guess the opposite would be everything else? Dunno. I mean, Hsun Tzu does say you should learn your whole life, but then claims the above is all there is to know. Either he is contradicting himself or framing a bare minimum of study. OR that we should study those works our entire lives. Probably the last. Either way, he leaves out the rest of human knowledge, which goes to show how ignorant even a great philosopher can be.
5.) What role do associations with other people play in a good education? Would it be possible to follow Hsun Tzu educational program by reading in isolation?
He makes an important point about the futility of studying (like contemplating) alone. To go in a room for forty-years with a pile of scrolls, and come out “educated,” is impossible. It’s key we speak with others, particularly teachers, who help us understand the material. We also need someone to bounce ideas off of, so here Hsun Tzu is stressing the dialectic (hence the need for these argumentative essays). Learning is a communal affair, and the lone scholar in his ivory tower will get nowhere.
6.) According to Hsun Tzu, what is the ultimate objective of education? What reward can an educated person expect? In your opinion, is this reward a sufficient motivation to pursue learning? Why or why not?
If found this portion of the essay to be one of the most beautiful statements of antiquity, and definitely feel he’s on the mark here. Hsun Tzu claims an educated man simply enjoys being alive more, because he is better equipped to appreciate the wonderful things in life, and avoid the base. But he is also, in an integral sense, his own person. He does not rely or succumb to others, but empowers them. Virtue emanates from the good man, as a wellspring for the rest of society. He does and indeed cannot bow to the weak, the bad, the degenerate. These facets of what it means to be good are both alluring and timeless; I feel the call and seek to emulate the kind of man Hsun Tzu advertizes. It’s difficult, and is not without cons, but I think the old philosopher is correct in his appraisal of education.
