ZISI (KONG JI) (Chinese Confucian philosopher, c. 481-402 BCE)
Zisi (also called Kong Ji) was the grandson of Confucius and is credited with writing the Doctrine of the Mean, one of the "Four Books" of classical Chinese philosophy (with the Great Learning, the Analects, and the Mencius). In just 33 chapters, Zisi demonstrates the usefulness of a "golden way" to gain perfect virtue. And what is that "way"? Some have translated the book's title, "Middle Way" or "Use of the Middle (Mean)." It is the principle of maintaining balance and harmony by developing in the mind a state of constant equilibrium. One should never act in excess, but practice self-examination, tolerance towards others, and sincerity.
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