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Who was Confucius? - Bryan W. Van Norden

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TEDEd Animation

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Most people recognize his name and know that he is famous for having said something, but considering the long-lasting impact his teachings have had on the world, very few people know who Confucius really was, what he really said... and why. Bryan W. Van Norden reveals the man behind the mystery.

People in Confucius's time disagreed about the value of studying literature and history. Is this similar to current debates over the value of an education in the humanities and liberal arts?

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About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Bryan W. Van Norden
  • Animator Tomás Pichardo-Espaillat
  • Script Editor Amy Adkins
  • Composer Cem Misirlioglu
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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