[One Thousand Characters a Day] Wisdom from the Analects, 'Studying People' <4>

Editor's NoteClassical scholar Jo Yoon-je revisited the Analects, which have been endlessly referenced and interpreted, to honestly reveal the 'human' side of Confucius, who has been idealized as the 'Great Teacher' in human history. Even a great person like Confucius made mistakes and sometimes gained new insights through relationships with his disciples. Through continuous learning, becoming a 'correctable human' is how we can truly study humanity and reach the status of a 'great person.' This book, which conveys the wisdom Confucius gained through dialogues with various people such as emperors, disciples, and farmers, along with multiple interpretations, emphasizes that a life of daily self-reflection like Confucius is the shortcut to a 'truly human life.' Word count: 967.

先有司 赦小過 擧賢才 (Seon Yusa Sa Sogwa Geo Hyeonjae)

"First assign tasks to subordinates, forgive small mistakes, and promote talented and wise people." - Zilu

(Omitted)

The example presents three methods to become a good manager, which remain useful today. First, Confucius teaches 'Seon Yusa (先有司),' meaning "when assigning tasks to subordinates, lead by example." If one holds a high position but only harshly commands work and merely asserts authority, no one will follow. Confucius hits the core with his words.

"A noble person is easy to serve but difficult to please; a petty person is difficult to serve but easy to please (君子 易事而難說也 小人難事而易說也)."

A noble person assigns tasks according to subordinates' abilities and handles all matters fairly and impartially, making it easy to work under them. In contrast, a petty person does not consider the abilities of subordinates when assigning tasks. They unconditionally demand results, forcing subordinates to resort to shortcuts and illegal means to comply with orders. The superior only rejoices in the results, disregarding the legitimacy of the process. Even if the subordinate lacks ability, the superior is easily swayed by sweet words or flattery, making it simple to please them.

Next, 'Sogwa (赦小過)' means "forgive small mistakes of subordinates generously." Everyone makes mistakes, big or small, and sometimes repeats them. Even Confucius said, "Not correcting mistakes is the real mistake." The most important thing when a mistake is made is to correct it and find better ways to improve. If a superior holds grudges over every small mistake, the subordinate will not find opportunities to redeem themselves, and their future will be blocked. "If the water is too clear, there are no fish; if a person is too strict, no one follows." This saying is from the Myeongsimbogam. If one is too strict with subordinates just because they consider themselves pure, resentment will arise, and eventually, no one will follow.

- Jo Yoon-je, Studying Humanity, Cheonglim Publishing, 18,500 KRW