The Chinese Classics : Confucius

1)  Is this a religion? Why do you think so/think not?

This is not a religion. This is because the books no not mention a god of any type. It only refers to what people must do to better improve themselves, their life, and their government.

2)  Does this reading support the idea that people are born good/bad/neutral?  Refer to three examples (using the book, section, and line number as the citations) that support your point of view.  

Says they were born neutral.

“Book '1: CHAP. VI. The Master said, 'A youth, when at home, should be filial, and, abroad, respectful to his elders. He should be earnest and truthful. He should overflow in love to all, and cultivate the friendship of the good. When he has time and opportunity, after the performance of these things, he should employ them in polite studies.”

“Book 2: CHAP. III. 1. The Master said, 'If the people be led by laws, and uniformity sought to be given them by punishments, they will try to avoid the punishment, but have no sense of shame.

2. 'If they be led by virtue, and uniformity sought to be given them by the rules of propriety, they will have the sense of shame, and moreover will become good.”

“Book 4: CHAP. I. The Master said, 'It is virtuous manners which constitute the excellence of a neighborhood. If a man in selecting a residence, do not fix on one where such prevail, how

can he be wise?'

CHAP. II. The Master said, 'Those who are without virtue cannot abide long either in a condition of poverty and hardship, or in a condition of enjoyment. The virtuous rest in virtue; the wise desire virtue.”