Editor's note: Confucius, a revered Chinese philosopher, holds an esteemed position as one of the most influential figures in history due to his profound teachings on ethics, morality, and social harmony, all of which continue to shape and guide individuals and societies worldwide.

This series offers a unique perspective on how influential figures from different backgrounds and time periods perceive and interpret this renowned Chinese philosopher. Through their eloquent and authentic perspectives, readers can gain a deeper understanding of Confucius' significance and his enduring appeal in the global arena.

François Quesnay (1694-1774) was a French physician and economist who played a major role in the development of the Physiocratic school of thought in the 18th century. He is best known for his influential work Tableau économique, which outlined the circulation of wealth in society and emphasized the importance of agriculture in the economy.

Quesnay's ideas laid the foundation for economic theories such as laissez-faire and had a significant influence on the development of modern economic thought. His contributions to economics have cemented his place as one of the key figures of the Enlightenment era.

In his work Oeuvres economiques et philosophiques de F. Quesnay, he writes, "…this collection (The Analects) is filled with maxims and moral sentences, which surpass those of the seven sages of Greece."