Problem
a) The notion of the noble or great soul has intrigued philosophers from Confucius's time to our own. Does it have any resonance for you? Is the concept of the petty or inferior soul clearer? If it is, why do you suppose that it is easier to come up with examples of pettiness than of nobility? What do you think Confucius was really saying in his reply to the rapacious official? (Hint: Are giving and taking ambiguous?)
b) Discuss some of the difficulties you might encounter by trying to follow the Eightfold Path. What, for example, might consist of "wrong livelihoods" (or "wrong college majors")? Are there some jobs that no truly enlightened person could perform? What determines whether an occupation (or college major) is "right"? Explain.