Our discussion in class really helped me to understand the basics of Confucius' teachings.  I found the diagram put it into perspective.

Legalists

Confucius

Taoists

The Legalists believe in rigid structure, and that society cannot survive unless it enforces it's rules.  The Taoists, on the other hand, are pretty much an anti-civilization movement.  The teachings of Confucius are right in the middle.  This makes his message seem almost like the perfect balance.  Just based off of what we've read so far, do you think this seems ideal?

Jesus the Feminist?

     Today in class we discussed both the importance of women for Jesus, and Jesus' impact on women's rights.  We've already said that many of Jesus' very first followers were women, and that were essential in spreading the message after his death.  He believed in equality for everyone, and even devised a way for women to be fundamental in spreading his message.  My question, then, is what made or inspired him to think this way?  I mean, gender equality is still a pretty radical ideal today around the world, so it's almost impossible for me to imagine what it must have been like in his time.  Was it purely his hatred of patriarchal structures, or was it maybe a personal influence?
      I realize that this question can never really be answered because no one will ever know the thoughts of Jesus, which is most likely why Crossan never even asks the question.  Still, it's an interesting thought.  What do you think?