Mencius states all universal truths dwell within oneself. Self-reflection and genuine sincerity bring supreme inner joy. Practicing reciprocity actively offers the nearest path to cultivating benevolence, the core Confucian virtue.
Mencius distinguishes two pursuits. Inner virtues like benevolence are fully attainable through personal effort. External wealth and status demand proper ways yet rely on fate, so one cannot guarantee gaining them.
Mencius rejoices at Yuezheng Zi’s appointment solely for his willingness to accept good advice. Open rulers attract virtuous counselors; arrogant ones drive them away, leaving only flatterers, which dooms good governance.
Bai Gui claims his flood control surpasses Yu the Great. Mencius disagrees: Yu diverted floods to the seas naturally, while Bai Gui channels floods into neighboring states. Such harmful zero-sum tactics are detested by benevolent men.
Mencius condemns ministers who boost rulers’ wealth and military power as people’s robbers. They aid tyrants if rulers disregard benevolence. States built on such utilitarian force lack moral legitimacy and will collapse quickly.
Mencius opposes Shenzi’s military expansion plan. Deploying untrained folk for war harms people. Ancient fiefdoms followed hundred-li rituals; seizing land through bloodshed violates benevolence. Ministers ought to guide rulers toward virtue, not conquest.