Learning from exemplars in Confucius’ Analects: The centrality of reflective observation

Yu-Yi Lai & Karyn Lai (2022): Learning from exemplars in Confucius' Analects: The centrality of reflective observation, Educational Philosophy and Theory.

研究目的：

1，范例主义是理解儒家道德修身的理论框架；

2，沟通理论与实践；

3，通过《论语》来证明范例主义的实际应用。

具体的实践——观。它包含三个要素：观察、评价、模仿。

To conclude our discussion, we return to observation, evaluation and emulation, centring on guan, to articulate the practical processes of Confucian moral learning. When we guan (observe) others' behaviours, we access a repository of practices in our ethico-cultural environment. Experienced guides point to examples exemplary and negatively-exemplary behaviours. under their guidance, we may also be introduced to the methods and resources for training our own guan (evaluative) capacities. With practice, this enables us to think independently, and to stand back to reflect on what we have observed. In emulating the practices of exemplary people, we may adapt what we have learnt, both creating our own repertoire of actions and, ideally, making positive shifts in our moral traditions. Over the course of an individual’s moral development, she becomes more consistent and reliable in evaluating existing practices and norms, and herself lives in exemplary ways. This is how she contributes to the continuing development of that cultural tradition.