“Do not do to others what you would not like them to do to you.”
—
Confucius
Analects XV.23 (trans. James Legge); also XII.2
Commentary
Confucius articulates the principle of reciprocity (shu) — treating others as you would wish to be treated. This is the practical expression of ren (humaneness) and grounds all relationships in mutual respect.
The negative formulation ('do not do') is more cautious than the positive ('do unto others'). It avoids imposing one's own preferences on others while establishing the baseline of respect and restraint.
Later Confucians developed this into a comprehensive ethical principle. When extended to all relationships and acted upon consistently, it creates a web of mutual care and responsibility.
Commentary
Confucius articulates the principle of reciprocity (shu) — treating others as you would wish to be treated. This is the practical expression of ren (humaneness) and grounds all relationships in mutual respect.
The negative formulation ('do not do') is more cautious than the positive ('do unto others'). It avoids imposing one's own preferences on others while establishing the baseline of respect and restraint.
Later Confucians developed this into a comprehensive ethical principle. When extended to all relationships and acted upon consistently, it creates a web of mutual care and responsibility.