Mencius advises scholars to hold moral superiority over nobles. He dismisses lords’ lavish palaces, feasts and grand hunts as worthless excess. Rooted in ancient righteous principles, he fears no powerful figures who only chase material luxury.
Gongsun Chou asks Mencius to simplify the lofty Way for ordinary people. Mencius refuses to lower moral standards, comparing teachers to skilled craftsmen. He uses heuristic teaching, holding the Middle Way for capable learners to follow.
Mencius states merely feeding others without affection is like raising pigs; affection without respect equals keeping beasts. Genuine respect precedes gifts; hollow polite formalities without sincerity cannot bind a true gentleman.
Mencius praises Liu Xiahui, who refused to trade his unwavering moral integrity for the supreme rank of Three High Ministers. It highlights that inner uprightness is priceless and unshakable, far above worldly power and glory.
Mencius argues scholars must not attach to lords as dependents. They may accept ruler’s relief but not unearned personal gifts. True respect for worthies means steady material support plus official power, not frequent trivial favors that humiliate virtuous men like Zisi.