Loyalty in the Teachings of Confucius and Josiah Royce

Abstract

Loyalty is central to the philosophies of Confucius and Josiah Royce. In the case of Confucius, we see this significance in the emphasis placed in the Analects on zhong (“loyalty,” “other-regard,” or “dutifulness”) and xiao (“filial piety” or “filiality”). In the case of Royce, we see this significance in the emphasis placed on loyalty in The Philosophy of Loyalty.2 Moreover, in Confucius's and Royce's interactions with disciples and students, we witness appreciable loyalty, to their students and to their respective philosophies. This article compares the teachings—in thought and action—of Confucius and Royce, highlighting the significance of loyalty therein.