U.S. House honors ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius

WASHINGTON, Oct. 30 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. House of Representatives has adopted a resolution to honor the 2,560th anniversary of the birth of ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius.

The resolution, passed by the House overwhelmingly Wednesday, recognized the philosopher's "invaluable contributions to philosophy and social and political thought."

The bill was introduced on Sept. 29, one day after Confucius' birthday, by Al Green, a Democratic Congressman from Texas, along with 40 other lawmakers.

Green said on the House floor that the resolution celebrated the "personal introspection" of Confucius and his "respect of social relationships, personal and governmental morality."

"He preached that politicians must always present truth and morality. He taught the philosophy of reciprocity, never impose upon others what you would not choose for yourself," said Green.

The resolution said Confucius, "who is one of the greatest thinkers, teachers, and social philosophers in history, developed a philosophy that has deeply influenced, and continues to influence, the social and political thought of countries around the world."

It also maintained that "Confucius counseled introspection, self-cultivation, sincerity, and the observance of respect within social relationships as a means of achieving justice and attaining morality in personal and public life, reflecting a moral fiber of the highest degree."