Confucianism originated in 500 BC; society could be saved if it emphasized sincerity in personal and public conduct; the key to orderly social life was the gentleman; [the gentleman] was to think for himself guided by definite rules of conduct; a gentleman also studied constantly and practiced self-examination; when gentlemen were rulers, their moral example would inspire those beneath them to lead good lives; virtuous behavior by rulers had a greater effect in governing than did laws and codes of punishment.