For Confucius, the Analects: Give two or three examples, from the passages, of the principle of li at work, and explain how li leads to ren (these terms are defined in the chapter).

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

“If they be led by virtue, and uniformity sought to be given them by the rules of propriety, they will have the sense of shame, and moreover will become good.”
In this example we can see how the rules, when followed, lead the practitioner to a sense of shame and goodness.

“I have not seen a person who loved virtue, or one who hated what was not virtuous. He who loved virtue, would esteem nothing above it. He who hated what is not virtuous, would practice virtue in such a way that he would not allow anything that is not virtuous to approach his person.”
In this quote, we can see how practicing the correct virtues leads one to make sure nothing bad happens to another person.

“In serving his parents, a son may remonstrate with them, but gently; when he sees that they do not incline to follow his advice, he shows an increased degree of reverence, but does not abandon his purpose; and should they punish him, he does not allow himself to murmur.”
This quote, perhaps, best exemplifies li by showing the proper propriety toward one’s ancestors/parents. This, of course, also proves his ren in his willingness to humbly serve his parents.