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Home > JOURNAL > Vol. 14 (2025) > Number 1

 

Abstract

Contemporary politics often downplays ethics in favour of other priorities, such as power, wealth, or short-term gains. In light of this trend, we may share the perception that Confucianism, which takes moral cultivation as the main feature of the school, may not contribute much to addressing political issues in democratic societies. Confucianism is aware of the importance of materialistic gains in achieving political goals and the human nature of being self-interest in the process of decision making. On top of that, Confucianism is cautious about the bad consequences when power, wealth, or self-interest become an end-in-itself. By making clear distinction between personal and governmental level, and engaging Confucian thoughts through underexamined historical text, it is found that Confucianism does not dismiss the relevance of pursuing material prosperity or self-interest but concerning about the moral motivation of a self-interested person towards moral and political goals. The question and possible account revolving moral motivation is where Confucianism can make contribution to contemporary political discourses.

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