Confucius constructed a comprehensive ideological system, advocating moral cultivation and "benevolence" and "courtesy" in individual conduct. They embody the spirit of humanity and order, and occupy a unique position in the philosophical world. They are not only the essence of ancient Chinese social and political thought, but have also profoundly influenced the development of China and the world in subsequent generations.

For one thing, the class fulfills one of Harvard's more challenging core requirements, Ethical Reasoning. It's clear, though, that students are also attracted by Puett's promise: "This course will change your life."

Confucius and other Chinese philosophers taught that the most mundane actions can have a ripple effect, and Puett urges his students to notice how even the most ordinary acts — smiling at the grocery clerk — change the course of the day by affecting how we feel.

To be interconnected, focus on mundane, everyday practices, and understand that great things begin with the very smallest of acts are radical ideas for young people living in a society that pressures them to think big and achieve individual excellence. This might be one reason why interest in Chinese philosophy is taking off around the nation — not just at Harvard.