The Political Ideals of Confucius and Socrates

Abstract

There are some similarities in the thinking and concepts of politics
between Confucius and Socrates. They both focused on the importance of personal character and morality to politics, and emphasized that social harmony and stability should be achieved through personal cultivation. However, they also have some differences in their political concepts and practices. Confucius paid attention to traditional values and etiquette norms, and believed that social harmony could be achieved by restoring the monarch's virtue and implementing correct etiquette. Socrates paid more attention to human reason and wisdom. In his view, personal and
social changes can be achieved through philosophical thinking and self-understanding.