Analysis and Interpretation of Confucius’ Analects: A Pedagogical Approach

Nemanja Vukanović, Tatjana Mihajlović

Abstract


This paper presents Confucius’ pedagogical ideas through the analysis and interpretation of his dialogues collected in the Analects. The focus is on key concepts of Confucianism, such as ren (humaneness, benevolence/kindness), junzi (the noble, ideal, exemplary person), dao (the way/path), and li (ritual behavior/courtesy). Confucius’ approach to education is examined, emphasizing the importance of learning for personal growth, self-development, and contribution to the community. His ideas on morality, modesty, empathy, and recognizing virtues in others are explored through his dialogues with students, identified as key characteristics of his pedagogical work. This theoretical study aims to provide a pedagogical analysis and interpretation of Confucius’ Analects. Implications for contemporary pedagogical theory and practice are discussed, including the need for lifelong learning, the development of socio-humanistic skills, student reflection, critical thinking, intergenerational and intragenerational learning, a deeper understanding of the learning process, self-cultivation, and self-transformation.

Keywords


Confucius; Confucianism; pedagogical ideas; Analects; ren; junzi; dao; li; Chinese culture; morality

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.51558/2490-3647.2025.10.1.459

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