Confucius' name used to make money

With an emerging movie, Confucius is once again back in social focus, with many organizations and influential individuals claiming interest in him. But that is only a cultural fever, says an article on China Youth Daily. Excerpts:

Movies and TV programs have been trying to depict Confucius' life and teachings in different ways, drawing the attention of people both at home and abroad. Several cultural forums have made Confucius their themes, too.

But despite the cultural fever these movies, TV programs and events have generated, people are going gaga not over Confucius or his teachings but his personal experiences and even his private life. Besides, related departments are busy exploiting the situation to make money. Such popularity can only be superficial.

The nationwide trend of memorizing Confucius' teachings started in the 1980s, when the country had just began its reform. Initially, Confucius was the greatest representative of traditional morality, but consumerism soon intruded into that domain. Commercial interests became the propelling force for many individuals and organizations to use the philosopher's name.

In fact, Confucius is not the only one who has suffered. Many ancient figures, including emperors and ministers and famous scholars, have also fallen victim to such commercial activities.

Many directors and lecturers have portrayed these historical figures' personal experiences, whether they were funny or tragic. In other words, directors and commercial establishments are exploiting these famous figures for money, not to spread their ideas and teachings.

Many temples have been built in the memory of Confucius in the country. But still our spiritual understanding of the master philosopher is far from adequate. Only if his wisdom, instead of his statue is worshipped can we expect Chinese culture to flourish.

(China Daily 01/28/2010 page9)